In response to a severe cholera outbreak in Zambia, the government has decided to delay the reopening of schools by three weeks. This announcement, made by the Ministry of Education on Thursday, affects both primary and secondary students who were originally scheduled to resume classes on the upcoming Monday.

The decision was prompted by the Ministry of Health’s confirmation of 3,015 cholera cases and 98 deaths since October 2023, as the outbreak poses a threat to public health security.

The outbreak has raised significant concerns regarding public health security within the country. Cholera, a waterborne disease, spreads rapidly in areas with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities. To combat the outbreak,  efforts are required to address the underlying issues related to water and sanitation infrastructure.

During the extended closure of schools, the education minister has directed that all learning institutions undergo thorough cleaning and maintenance. The mandate also includes ensuring the availability of clean water and sanitation facilities, sufficient hand washing stations, and appropriate disinfectants. These measures aim to create a safe learning environment for both students and teachers upon their return to school.