Over 33,000 People in Chainda Township have been vaccinated as Cholera Cases Remain Concentrated in Lusaka District
Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) Director, Public Health Policy Diplomacy and Communications (PHPDC) Dr. Doreen Shempela. - Picture by ZNPHI.
By Hellen Bwalya and Derrick Sinjela
In a Wednesday 4th February 2026 Press Statement Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) Director, Public Health Policy Diplomacy and Communications (PHPDC) Dr. Doreen Shempela informed the nation that 33,019 people have been vaccinated against cholera in Chainda Township, Lusaka District, out of a targeted 35,000 individuals.
Dr. Shempela explained that the vaccination initiative is part of ongoing efforts to control the spread of the disease.
Dr. Shempela noted that the vaccination campaign is being implemented in three rounds, administered at Day 0, Day 8, and Day 28 intervals.
“Coverage for the oral cholera vaccines, which commenced on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, stood at 92 per cent in the first round, while the second round has reached seventy-seven per cent (77%). The ongoing vaccination exercise remains a critical public health intervention aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and interrupting cholera transmission in Lusaka District,” explained Dr. Shempela.
According to Dr. Shempela, a joint team from the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) and the Zambia Red Cross Society (ZRCS) continues to support cholera response and vaccination efforts in Chainda Township through household and community-level engagement.
As of Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, 12 new cholera cases were recorded countrywide, bringing the cumulative total to the 797, while deaths nationwide stand at 14 since the outbreak began on 5 August 2026.
” This translates into a case fatality rate of 1.8%. The newly reported cases were recorded in Lusaka (10) and Mpulungu (2). Transmission remains concentrated in a limited number of hotspots, particularly Lusaka, which continues to experience ongoing transmission. Mpulungu has recorded a localised resurgence, while Nakonde has reported sporadic cases, highlighting the need for continued vigilance. ZNPHI is pleased to announce that Mbala District has recorded 28 consecutive days without any new cholera cases and has therefore met the criteria for outbreak closure. This achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated response efforts and strong community cooperation,” said Dr. Shempela.
ZNPHI’s Dr. Shempela commended districts that have successfully interrupted cholera transmission and urges all communities to remain alert. Members of the public are strongly advised to; • Practice regular handwashing with soap and clean water , • Drink only treated or boiled water, • Ensure proper sanitation and hygiene and • Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting”.
ZNPHI’s Dr. Shempela urged the general public to remain vigilant by maintaining good hygiene practices, drinking safe and treated water, ensuring proper waste disposal, and seeking immediate medical attention if cholera symptoms are suspected.
Doreen.Shempela@znphi.gov.zm
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