Cholera risk in Zanzibar

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

Zanzibar's risk score of 66/100 reflects real and ongoing concerns. Local factors include limited clean water access in some areas, crowded market conditions, inadequate sewage systems, reliance on street food, and seasonal flooding that contaminates water supplies.

Here are key steps to protect yourself:

Always drink bottled or boiled water. If you must drink tap water, boil it for at least one full minute or use proper water purification tablets. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it was made from treated water.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before eating and after using the toilet. If soap is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol content.

Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw seafood from street vendors, unpeeled fruits you did not peel yourself, and salads washed in local water. Stick to busy food stalls with high turnover.

Carry oral rehydration salts in your travel kit. If you develop watery diarrhea, start rehydration immediately and seek medical care without delay. Do not wait.

Avoid swimming or wading in freshwater sources, especially after heavy rains when contamination risk is highest.

These steps significantly reduce your risk. Cholera is preventable with consistent attention to what you eat and drink.