Seychelles Health Ministry Outlines Response to Global Cholera Outbreak
VICTORIA, Seychelles, The Minister of Health is calling on members of the public to be vigilant by continuously maintaining a high standard of hygiene, in case cholera, which is not yet present in the country, lands on our shores. The statement followed an advisory report by the World Health Organisation on the rise in the number of cholera cases globally since 2021, 2022 and 2023, especially on the African and Asian continents. The ministry has urged Seychellois to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their families.
The appeal was made by the acting public health commissioner, Dr Meggy Louange, during a press conference held at the ministry’s headquarters, Red Roof building, Seychelles Hospital. Also present was the principal medical officer for community health service, Dr Josapha Jouaneau. The health ministry has urged the public to be vigilant and to maintain high standards of hygiene, including regular hand washing, safe food preparation, and use of safe water.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the bacterium vibrio cholera. It is transmitted via ingestion of contaminated food and water. Humans are the only host, even though vibrios can survive for a long time in coastal waters contaminated by human excreta. After a short incubation period of less than five days, the typical symptoms might develop, characterised by vomiting and watery diarrhoea, which can also be severe at times.
The severe forms of the disease can kill within hours if left untreated. In most cases, though, symptoms are mild or absent and infected individuals become carriers with no symptoms. Dr Louange noted that in Seychelles, to date there have never been reported cases of cholera, but because of the situation globally, the ministry expects that an imported case of cholera may eventually be received.
In this respect, the Ministry of Health needs to ensure that there is a plan in place and that Seychelles is prepared for any eventuality. The ministry is working with various partners, including the Public Utilities Corporation, Ministry of Education, environment and tourism departments, among others, to keep cholera at bay. Dr Louange said so far, Seychelles has not reported any case, because of its high standard in hygiene attributed to access to portable water for 98 percent of the population, and sanitation over 98 percent of the population, as well as basic hygiene performed.
