To the NUST Community
There has been an increase in the number of Cholera cases reported in Harare, Masvingo, Manicaland, Midlands and Mashonaland Central. Media reports say at least 25 people have died because of Cholera and 3700 people hospitalised, with the outbreak declared a State of Emergency. As such, the NUST Community is called upon to exercise due care as we start the weekend, particularly to be on the alert for possibility of contact with people who have travelled from affected areas.
NUST Management confirms that there is no outbreak on campus. As such, management is pro-actively putting measures in place to limit the transmission of this disease by:
- Attending to ablution and sewer facilities as required
- Ensuring the provision of clean and safe drinking water
- Providing liquid soap in the restrooms.
NUST staff and Students are warned to avoid purchasing food from unlicensed outlets as hygiene standards in these may be compromised. The Campus Security, Health and Safety Committee will be meeting on Monday, 17 September 2018 together with Public Health Experts to craft a longer term active response to this outbreak. Meanwhile, the University is encouraged to practice good hygiene in the restrooms, in handling food and drinking water.
The basic cholera prevention tips include;
- Drink and use safe water - Boil it or treat it with a chlorine product or household bleach.
- Wash your hands with soap and running water
- Cook your food thoroughly and eat while it is hot
- Wash your fruits and vegetables under running water
- Avoid shaking hands at public gatherings including funerals
Should you suspect that you have cholera visit the clinic immediately or alert any health officials near you.
Message by the: Campus Security, Health and Safety Committee
