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Blessings Chidakwa  in Kadoma
KADOMA is on high alert following reports of suspected typhoid cases in some parts of the city, with investigations underway.

The city has moved swiftly to allay fears of the water borne disease spreading, saying it had since put in place measures to manage any eventuality.

City health director Dr Daniel Chirundu told The Herald that they were investigating reports of typhoid cases in some parts of the city.

“There are investigations currently underway of people suspected to have been affected by typhoid who sought treatment from private doctors,” he said.

“The private doctors are currently assisting us with information while investigations continue.”

Dr Chirundu said the city was prepared to deal with any outbreak.

“So far we acquired medication that can cater for at least 100 people. We also created a treatment centre at the Fire Brigade Station,” he said.

“Our teams are currently sensitising people to go to clinics, where they will be treated freely even during weekends whenever they develop diarrhoeal symptoms or suspect they may have contracted the disease.”

Dr Chirundu said typhoid, unlike cholera, could even be spread through urine.

He said water quality control tests were also underway as well as residue checking.

“We have also accelerated the clearing of garbage heaps, although there are quite a few lately,” he said. The city has also conducted preparatory meetings with relevant stakeholders such as Kadoma General Hospital.

Typhoid was reported in Gweru early this month, with Health and Child Care Minister David Parirenyatwa condemning the city’s water as not being safe for consumption after a visit.