Zambia has recorded 20 new cholera cases in the last 24 hours, with no deaths reported, as active transmission continues in several parts of the country.
The new cases were reported from Lusaka (11), Nakonde (4), Choma (3), and Mpulungu (2), confirming Choma as a new outbreak area and raising the number of districts with active cholera transmission to seven.
Minister of Health Elijah Muchima says Lusaka remains the current driver of the outbreak, recording widespread but low-level transmission across multiple sub-districts, while Mpulungu continues to experience a second wave of cases.
Beyond cholera, the Ministry of Health has also raised concern over seasonal flooding, which has displaced households, disrupted access to safe water, and resulted in five flood-related deaths in parts of Eastern, Southern, Lusaka and Central Provinces.
He says the flooding has heightened the risk of waterborne diseases, even as health facilities remain operational and national disease surveillance systems stay fully active.
The Minister further highlighted other priority public health threats under close monitoring, including measles, with sporadic cases reported in 2026, and Mpox, which continues to be recorded in several provinces despite no longer being classified as a global health emergency.
In addition, Zambia is strengthening preparedness for emerging global health risks, following a recent World Health Organization alert on Nipah virus in India, assuring the nation of adequate laboratory capacity and ongoing readiness assessments.
The Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, seek early medical care, and comply with public health guidance as government and partners continue efforts to protect lives and safeguard public health.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
