Churches responding to Malawi cholera outbreak

Health workers prepare to see patients suffering with cholera at Bwaila Hospital in Lilongwe, Malawi, on Jan. 11. — Thoko Chikondi/AP Health workers prepare to see patients suffering with cholera at Bwaila Hospital in Lilongwe, Malawi, on Jan. 11. — Thoko Chikondi/AP

The Brethren in Christ Church and Mennonite Brethren Church in Malawi are working to treat and prevent a cholera outbreak, according to a Mennonite World Conference prayer request.

The Associated Press reported on Jan. 12 that the worst outbreak in decades had caused 750 deaths since last March, leading the Ministry of Health to close many businesses that lack safe water or hygienic facilities.

Cholera cases are projected to increase with the coming rainy season.

People still displaced by a January 2022 tropical storm and March 2022 cyclone lack access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene to prevent infection.

The World Health Organization said 31 countries have reported cholera outbreaks since December, a 50% increase over previous years. In addition to Malawi, Haiti and Syria are among the worst-affected countries.

Anabaptist World

Anabaptist World Inc. (AW) is an independent journalistic ministry serving the global Anabaptist movement. We seek to inform, inspire and Read More

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