Geneva, November 21, 1997
Dear Friends,
ACT/Christian Council of Mozambique (CCM) reports that Maputo city and some areas of Maputo province are under siege of an endemic cholera outbreak and the Health authorities have declared "a general alert" in an unprecedented move in the recent history of this city. Heavy rains have ecacerbated the situation.
To date, 120 people have died and 2,700 are suffering from this disease. Since 3 November, Maputo Central Hospital has treated 4,000 people. It is believed that the figures are higher if unreported cases are also included.
Apart from the inadequacy of facilities, Maputo Central Hospital which is the largest and most well equipped in the country, is also facing shortage of medical staff, beds and medicines especially IV fluids (drips) and rehydration salts. The Government has launched an appeal to reinforce the stock of essential medicines.
Xai-xai city, in Gaza province, has registered 47 cases of cholera and other cities are in danger of facing the same problem if necessary preventive measures are not taken timely. In addition malaria is also assuming alarming proportions.
CCM has appealed for the following items for the people of Maputo city and shantytowns:
- IV fluids - Ringer lactate
- catheters
- rehydration salts
- antibiotics
- beds and/or mattresses including bed sheets
- inox cups, plates and spoons
- gloves
- wheelchairs and stretchers
- anti-malaria tablets, injections and syrups
A request for food items is also included.
In the meantime, at the request of Bishop Machedo of the Methodist Church in Maputo, ACT/UMCOR USA is arranging airfreight of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and some cartons of Saline Solution. The consignment, including cost of airfreight is valued at USD 15,000. UMCOR is also investigating the possibilities of sending Antibiotics.
ACT/Lutheran World Federation - World Service Mozambique is monitoring the situation as well and we will keep you informed of further developments.
Incidence of cholera has also been reported from Kenya, Tanzania and Somalia - the latter currently reeling under unprecedented floods.
In the event of an Appeal being issued, we will come back to you. In the meantime, thank you for your attention.
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact the ACT Secretariat.