Cholera risk in Malabo

Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. It spreads through contaminated water and food. Without treatment, it can be deadly within hours.

Malabo faces elevated cholera risk due to overcrowded neighborhoods, limited clean water access, seasonal flooding, and inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Open sewage, reliance on untreated water sources, and poor hand hygiene practices create ideal conditions for outbreak.

Here is how you protect yourself and your family:

First, treat all drinking water. Boil water for at least one minute, or use chlorine purification tablets. Never drink from taps, wells, or street vendors without treatment. Store water in clean, covered containers.

Second, wash hands with soap and clean water consistently, especially before eating and after using the toilet. If soap is unavailable, use ash and water. Keep nails short and clean.

Third, cook food thoroughly and eat it while hot. Avoid raw vegetables washed in local water, unpeeled fruits from street vendors, and undercooked seafood. Shellfish from local markets carry particular risk during warmer months.

Fourth, dispose of waste properly. Use latrines or designated areas. Never defecate near water sources. Keep children away from standing water and open drains, especially after rains.

Fifth, recognize early signs immediately. Watery diarrhea, vomiting, and leg cramps require urgent oral rehydration. Mix clean water, salt, and sugar in proper ratios or use commercial packets. Seek medical care at any health center without delay.

If someone in your household falls ill, isolate their drinking utensils and bedding. Disinfect surfaces with bleach solution. Wash their laundry separately in hot water.

Report suspected cases to local health authorities. Community cooperation stops spread faster than individual action alone.