Zambia has ended its latest cholera outbreak after five weeks without new cases. The last was reported in May 2025, with 496 infections and 9 deaths. Though the outbreak is over, officials warn of continued risk due to drought and poor sanitation. Preventive measures and public awareness efforts remain in place.

Zambia has officially declared an end to its most recent cholera outbreak after five consecutive weeks without any newly reported cases. The announcement follows extensive monitoring and confirmation from the Health Ministry, which reported that the final wave of the outbreak resulted in 496 confirmed cases and 9 deaths. Health Minister Elijah Muchima stated that the last known case was recorded in May 2025 in Kabwe District, located in the Central Province. The declaration comes as a relief to many, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing battle against the disease.

However, health officials have cautioned that the danger is not completely behind them. Despite the formal conclusion of the outbreak, the underlying factors that contribute to cholera outbreaks in Zambia remain unresolved. The country is still experiencing prolonged drought conditions, which have had a detrimental impact on access to clean water and proper sanitation. These environmental challenges create ideal conditions for waterborne diseases like cholera to reemerge, especially in vulnerable communities with limited infrastructure and resources.

Minister Muchima emphasized that ending the outbreak does not mean that the fight against cholera is over. On the contrary, the government is scaling up efforts to prevent any future resurgence. Medical supplies, including oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics, are being prepositioned in areas identified as high-risk zones. These supplies are intended to facilitate a rapid response in case of any new infections. Additionally, authorities are enhancing community-based