Zambia announces success in fighting cholera outbreak, but caution on Mpox spread

Zambia has officially ended its cholera outbreak from 2025, as announced by the Ministry of Health, after more than five weeks without new cases.

Health Minister Elijah Muchima confirmed this news, stating that the country has achieved the global standards for cholera elimination set by the Global Task Force on Cholera Control (GTFCC). The last case was reported in Kabwe, Central Province, on May 13, 2025.

“This is a significant achievement in our public health efforts and shows the strength of our healthcare system and communities,” Muchima said.

The cholera outbreak in Zambia lasted from late 2024 to 2025, leading to 496 confirmed cases and 9 deaths. The Minister recognized the vital contributions of health workers and the communities affected in battling the epidemic.

Even with this good news, Muchima warned against being too relaxed, highlighting the ongoing drought that could lead to more waterborne diseases. He emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing water sanitation, hygiene practices, and improving disease monitoring systems.

“To stop future outbreaks, we are strengthening community surveillance and placing essential medical supplies in areas at high risk,” Muchima added.

At the same time, the Health Minister updated the public on the Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) situation in the country. As of June 27, 2025, Zambia has reported 138 confirmed cases across 29 of the 31 districts.

Copperbelt Province has the highest number of cases at 32, followed by Muchinga with 29, Lusaka with 28, Western with 19, North-Western with 18, Central with 7, Eastern with 2, Southern with 2, and Northern Province with 1 case. Luapula Province is the only area without any confirmed Mpox cases.

The Ministry is keeping a close watch on the situation and has urged the public to stay alert and report any suspected symptoms.