Health authorities in Lilongwe are on high alert following the admission of two male patients at Bwaila Hospital with symptoms consistent with cholera.
The suspected cases, originating from Nathenje and Chinsapo, were reported in a preliminary health bulletin seen by this publication.
According to Lilongwe District Health Office spokesperson Richard Mvula, both patients presented with acute diarrhoea, which is a key symptom of cholera, prompting immediate testing to determine the exact nature of the illness.
“We are still awaiting laboratory results to confirm whether these are cholera cases or another waterborne disease,” he said in a brief interview.
“It may take up to a week before we have conclusive results. Once available, we will provide a full update.”
In the meantime, public health advocates are urging swift and coordinated action to prevent any potential outbreak.
Malawi Health Equity Network (Mhen) executive director George Jobe emphasized the need for proactive measures.
“Suspected patients should be isolated while contact tracing is conducted,” he said.
“Health authorities must intensify education campaigns in Lilongwe and surrounding areas to raise awareness about cholera symptoms. Additionally, sanitation efforts must be strengthened in the communities where these cases may have originated.”
Cholera remains a persistent threat in Lilongwe, particularly in peri-urban settlements and areas near water bodies where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.
Between 2022 and 2024, Malawi experienced one of its worst cholera outbreaks in history, recording 59 376 cases and 1 772 deaths across 29 health districts.
Lilongwe was among the hardest-hit regions, accounting for over 1 200 cases and more than 100 fatalities during that period.
As the country remains vulnerable to waterborne diseases, health experts are calling for vigilance, preparedness, and community engagement to avert another crisis.
