Risk factors associated with cholera in Harare City, Zimbabwe, 2008

• DOI: 10.4314/eajph.v7i4.64754
• Publication Date: 2011-11-25T21:28:18Z
• Authors: A Kone-Coulibaly; M Tshimanga; G Shambira; NT Gombe; A Chadambuka; P Chonzi; S Mungofa
• Keywords: Cholera

Two suspected cholera cases at Beatrice Road Infectious Diseases Hospital were reported to Harare City Health Department on 14 October 2008 setting in motion investigation and control measures. We determined the extent of epidemic risk factors for contracting cholera.An unmatched 1:1 case-control study was conducted.Any resident City, 2 years above, with acute watery diarrhoea, or without vomiting from 30 01 December 2008.Any neighbour a case, who did not contract during same period.From 21 January 2009, 11203 case fatality rate (CFR) 3.98%. interviewed 140 controls. Median age 28 (Q1 = 20; Q3 37.5) 28.5 23; 38) controls respectively. Having diarrhoea contact home [AOR 12.02; 95% CI (5.46 - 26.44)], having attained less than secondary education 4.40; (2.28 8.48)]; eating cold food 4.24; (1.53 11.70)] independent while drinking tap water 0.05; (0.03 0.11)], washing hands after using toilet 0.19; (0.09 0.39)]; hot always [AOR= 0.29; (0.17 0.49)] independently protective factors.The high CFR may be due poor management staff shortage treatment camps. Th e outbreak resulted personal hygiene practices that occur when supplies are cut. Lack water, low knowledge prevention measures delays community health campaigns contributed protracted outbreak. increases chances household members acquiring infection. Provision safe education, recruitment training workers must prioritized.