The Ministry of Health has evacuated 25 cholera patients from a Zambia Railways passenger train to Chilanga Urban Clinic.
The train was en route to Livingstone when it was intercepted in the Mapepe–Kachenjela area of Chilanga District, following a cholera outbreak notification.
Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Kennedy Lishimpi has disclosed that the affected patients have been transferred to the health facility for medical attention.
According to a statement made available to the media by the Chilanga Town Council Public Relations Unit, Dr Lishimpi stated that 475 other passengers aboard the train have been vaccinated as part of the measures to contain the situation and protect public health.
He explained that one passenger who boarded the train from Kapiri Mposhi developed cholera symptoms on the train, prompting the Ministry of Health to be alerted.
Dr Lishimpi said the train was intercepted following the alert and an assessment was conducted on board.
He added that the train has been fumigated and is expected to resume its journey to Livingstone once the last passenger has received the required vaccination.
Dr Lishimpi said the Government will erect resting tents to provide temporary shelter for passengers affected by the incident as an interim measure.
“The passengers have also been provided with clean, treated drinking water and will receive food as authorities continue to attend to their immediate needs,” he said.
He added that the Ministry of Health is coordinating with its staff in Livingstone to be on the lookout for any symptoms that may develop among passengers on the train for a quick response.
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