LUSAKA, Zambia — Zambian health authorities officially commenced the rollout of oral cholera vaccines across high-risk communities on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in collaborative efforts to curb the months-long disease outbreak.
The immunization drive kicked off with a launch ceremony led by Health Minister Sylvia Masebo alongside United Nations Resident Coordinator Dr. Penelope Campbell who handed over the vaccine stockpile supplied by UN agencies.
Speaking at George Compound in Lusaka, one of the most cholera-afflicted area nationally, Minister Masebo hailed the start of the vaccination campaign as a critical step to save lives and eventually eliminate transmission.
“This occasion calls for celebration as it represents significant progress towards eradicating cholera and improving wellbeing,” Masebo told attendees.
The arrival of over 1 million oral vaccine doses last week gave fresh impetus to rein in Zambia’s deadliest cholera epidemic in two decades. The immunizations will initially target high-density locales to curb rampant infections.
Officials reminded citizens to keep observing key prevention practices like hand washing and safe food handling while vaccination proceeds in stages across cholera hotspots.
“Let’s join hands to safeguard our nation from cholera. Together we are stronger and healthier,” the Health Minister tweeted, inviting collective resolve to overcome the outbreak.
With over 400 deaths and a caseload approaching 40,000, authorities hope the combination of intensified vaccinations and vigilant public health behaviors will hasten the end of Zambia’s prolonged cholera emergency.
