In the community

Health ministry grapples with malaria, diarrhea, and dog bite cases

Published

1 year ago

July 22, 2024

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

According to the latest Disease Surveillance Report released by the Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe, the country is facing a significant burden of three major health issues: malaria, common diarrhea, and dog bites.

Malaria cases on the rise

In the week ending July 7, 2024, Zimbabwe reported 476 new malaria cases and two deaths. The majority of the cases (79) were children under the age of five. Mashonaland Central and Manicaland provinces were the hardest hit, with 205 and 118 cases, respectively. Cumulatively, the country has recorded 31,757 malaria cases and 57 deaths.

Diarrhea cases continue to soar

The report also indicates that 6,520 common diarrhea cases and two deaths were reported in the same week. The deaths occurred in Harare Province and Mbire District in Mashonaland Central Province. Children under five accounted for 2,930 of the reported cases. Mashonaland West and Mashonaland East provinces reported the highest number of cases, with 933 and 930 cases, respectively. Cumulatively, Zimbabwe has recorded 175,551 diarrhea cases and 60 deaths.

Dog bites on the increase

Furthermore, 486 dog bite cases were reported, with no fatalities. Notably, 104 of the cases involved bites from vaccinated dogs, while 115 involved unvaccinated dogs, and 266 involved dogs of unknown status. Masvingo Province and Mashonaland East Province reported the highest number of dog bite cases, with 82 and 81 cases, respectively. Cumulatively, the country has recorded 14,093 dog bite cases.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care urges citizens to take preventive measures to mitigate the spread of these diseases.

For malaria, this includes using insecticide-treated bed nets, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating breeding sites for mosquitoes.

To prevent diarrhea, the ministry recommends practicing good hygiene, drinking clean water, and seeking medical attention if symptoms persist.

Regarding dog bites, the ministry advises people to avoid stray dogs, ensure their pets are vaccinated, and seek medical attention immediately if bitten.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

19 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

20 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.

In the community

Victoria Falls man sentenced to six months for domestic violence

Published

20 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A 33-year-old Victoria Falls man has been sentenced to 6 months imprisonment for domestic violence charges. The sentence was handed down by the Victoria Falls Magistrates’ Court.

The man, from Chinotimba, was arrested on August 3 for a domestic violence charge. According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the facts of the matter are as follows: a misunderstanding arose between the offender and his 32-year-old wife over money left in her jacket. Later that evening, the offender shouted at his wife before strangling her several times on the neck. The victim reported the matter to the police, which led to the offender’s arrest.

The court sentenced the offender to 6 months imprisonment, with two months suspended for five years on condition of good behavior.

A further four months were suspended on the condition that he performs 140 hours of community service.