Huambo - Two hundred and 73 campaign centers to treat possible cases of cholera were created a few days ago in the province of Huambo, due to the outbreak of this disease that is occurring in some countries neighboring Angola.
The head of the Public Health department, Valentim Catolo, told ANGOP that the aforementioned centers were set up in an equal number of health units, including provincial and municipal hospitals, mother and child centers, health centers and health stations.
The officer informed that the measure aims to prevent the spread of cholera in the province of Huambo, with connection to the Lobito Corridor, which is very active and presents a strategic alternative route to the markets of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, ravaged by this disease.
He said that the cholera treatment centers have oral rehydration serum and intravenous infusion mechanisms, to assist any cases that may arise in any municipality in this region of the Central Highlands.
At this moment, he added, the placement of beds (suitable for the accommodation of patients) is awaited.
Valentim Catolo added that local authorities are developing intense awareness campaigns against cholera, through information programs about symptoms, home treatment techniques, routes of contamination and primary care.
The campaign also consists of distributing posters with information about cholera prevention methods and the importance of permanent hygiene, to increase the population's involvement.
He explained that cholera is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria known as “vibrio Cholera e” that normally attacks the intestines and has a rapid programming capacity through water and food for human consumption.
He highlighted that the symptoms of cholera can occur within two to five days, after consuming water or food contaminated with the bacteria, thus causing the patient intense diarrhea, more liquid stools, tiredness, nausea and constant vomiting.
Valentim Catolo said that the treatment involves ingesting liquids or serums, to avoid dehydration caused by severe diarrhea.
The last cases of cholera occurred in 2014, in the province of Huambo, with a record of 134 cases, nine deaths and a lethality rate set at around 7 percent, with a higher incidence in the neighborhoods of Benfica, Canhe, Macolocolo, Rua do Comércio and São Pedro, on the outskirts and outskirts of the main municipality of this region.
LT/JSV/ALH/TED/DOJ
