Sierra Leone: Cholera Situation in Salone As At 27 August

Nationally the cholera occurrence continues to show an upward trend particularly in the Western Area which accounts for the majority of cases (49%). As of the 27 August 2012 the national cumulative for all 10 districts is 13,918 cases with 232 deaths (CFR=1.7).

Western Area (183), Bombali (20) and Tonkolili (17) reported the highest number of cases. Cholera outbreak has been confirmed in Kenema district in the East of the country bringing the number of affected districts to 11. Reported data indicate 16 cases with no deaths.

A meeting on cholera preparedness and response was held for the District Medical Officers (DMOs) to strengthen their capacity especially in the areas of coordination, capacity building and standard setting. The expected result of this meeting includes streamlined emergency response, effective information flow and improved case management.

Deputy Minister of Health, James Borboh Sawyer encouraged the DMOs to report regularly the district situation to the national level.

In her statement, the representative from the Office of the President, Ms Miatta Kargbo thanked the partners for their support and reiterated government’s commitment to control the outbreak.

The Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kisito Daoh, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Al-Hassan Seisay, and the Director of Disease Prevention and Control highlighted the role of the DMOs. Presentations were delivered by the Ministry of Health, WHO and UNICEF on coordination.

The Cholera, Command and Control Centre has commenced operation.