New disease hit Neno District, three die

Neno District Hospital has reported a rise in unusual bacterial infections among children admitted to the facility since June 26, 2024 resulting in three deaths.

Neno District Hospital, Public Relations Officer, Caroline Banda said the hospital recorded 23 cases to date.

“Currently, four children are admitted, 16 have recovered and been discharged, and three have unfortunately died,” Banda said.

She said the affected children show symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, loose stools and headache.

The publicist said most of them tested negative on malaria and notably stool tests from two cases revealed the presence of an uncommon bacterium, Raoultella ornithinolytica, suspected to be the cause and potentially spreading through poor hygiene practices.

Banda added that the affected children come from 12 villages of Donda, Samson, Kweneza, Wilison, Galeta, Sekani, Mpakathi, George, Chifenthe, Chimchembere, Chagwaudyo, and Chimbalanga from Traditional Authorities Chekucheku and Dambe.

“Efforts to identify the underlying cause of this surge in cases. include targeted community case follow-ups, environmental assessments and increased community awareness,” she said, adding that the hospital is urging people in the district to practice good hygiene at home and in public places to prevent further spread.

She however said the increase in cases has been gradual with the highest number of admissions (four cases) occurring yesterday.

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