The Facts
Last week, in response to an ongoing cholera outbreak, the government of Zimbabwe banned large gatherings in the hopes of reducing the growing number of cases.
In addition to baring large gatherings, other mitigation measures have been advised, such as not shaking hands with others, not eating food at gatherings, and not buying food and beverages from unknown or unlicensed sellers.
The Spin
Narrative A
The impacts of increased, climate-catalyzed extreme weather are more prevalent on the African continent, and as a result, the diseases that are abundant there are exacerbated. As epidemics and outbreaks grow, more vulnerable areas are suffering — especially women and children. As the impacts grow more severe we can expect to see an increase in epidemics and an increase in the cost to fight them.
Narrative B
Regardless of the cause, the government of Zimbabwe has made great strides forward in its battle against cholera outbreaks. With the ambitious goal of eradicating the illness, Zimbabwe will continue to receive support from international partners. Zimbabwe has all the tools to manage cholera's dangers in improve public health for all of its citizens.
