Zanzibar warns of outbreak diseases ahead of rainy season

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar Ministry of Health has urged citizens to take health precautions and maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent an outbreak of diseases expected during the upcoming rainy season.

The warning follows a weather forecast by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), which predicts that rains may begin in March and continue until May.

Zanzibar’s Minister for Health, Mr Nassor Ahmed Mazrui, stated that seasonal rains in recent years have contributed to the spread of diseases such as cholera, malaria and typhoid fever, mainly due to water stagnation and poor hygiene.

“The Ministry urges the public to follow hygiene guidelines and take necessary measures to protect themselves from these diseases,” he said in a public statement.

The Minister outlined key preventive measures, including maintaining environmental cleanliness by properly disposing of waste, removing garbage and keeping surroundings clean.

He also emphasised the importance of eliminating stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding, using clean and safe water by boiling or purifying it and ensuring hygienic storage conditions.

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Other measures include proper food handling, such as cooking food thoroughly, storing it in clean conditions, keeping it covered and avoiding uncovered food.

The Minister also urged the use of clean toilets, regular sanitation and sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to reduce the risk of malaria.

He further advised the public to wash hands with clean running water and soap before eating and after using the toilet or use hand sanitisers to prevent infections.

“Proper hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain good health,” Minister Mazrui emphasised.

He added that the Ministry of Health is implementing various strategies, including public education campaigns and strengthening disease surveillance systems to protect the community.

Additionally, he called on key institutions, including the Office of the President – Regional Administration and Special Departments, municipal councils, Zanzibar Water Authority (ZAWA), Zanzibar Stone Town Conservation Authority (ZSTCDA), and Zanzibar Housing Corporation, to take proactive measures in safeguarding the public during the rainy season.