Cholera risk in Palembang

Cholera Prevention Guide for Palembang

Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or food. It causes severe diarrhea and dehydration, which can become life-threatening without treatment.

Palembang faces a cholera risk score of 65/100 due to several local factors. The city sits along the Musi River, where flooding during the rainy season (November to March) can mix sewage with drinking water sources. Dense neighborhoods in areas like Seberang Ulu and 16 Ilir often have limited clean water access, and street food vendors frequently use untreated water for cooking and washing. Open drainage systems and inadequate sanitation infrastructure increase contamination risk, especially in low-lying kampung areas near the riverbanks.

Five prevention steps you can take now.

First, treat all drinking water. Boil water for at least one full minute before drinking or cooking. If boiling is not possible, use chlorine tablets or water purification filters. Never drink directly from wells or river sources without treatment.

Second, wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before eating, after using the bathroom, and after any contact with floodwater. Keep hand sanitizer available when soap is not accessible.

Third, eat only freshly cooked hot food. Avoid raw vegetables washed in questionable water, unpeeled fruits from street vendors, and raw or undercooked seafood, which is common in Palembang markets.

Fourth, store water in clean, covered containers. Keep storage containers off the ground and away from flood-prone areas. Replace stored water every few days.

Fifth, if someone develops severe watery diarrhea, begin oral rehydration immediately using clean water mixed with oral rehydration salts. Seek medical care at RSUP Dr. Mohammad Hoesin or your nearest puskesmas without delay. Do not wait.