The cholera situation in southern Mizoram has taken a grave turn, with four fresh deaths reported this week in Lawngtlai district. With these latest fatalities, the total death toll due to the outbreak has climbed to 13 across Lawngtlai and neighbouring Siaha districts since November.
Officials said six cholera-related deaths were recorded in Lawngtlai district in November, while four more patients succumbed recently at the Lairam Christian Medical Centre in Lawngtlai town. As of Wednesday, at least seven patients displaying cholera-like symptoms were undergoing treatment at the hospital.
Strict restrictions imposed, borders shut
In response to the worsening situation, the Lawngtlai district administration has imposed stringent measures to prevent further spread of the disease. District Magistrate Donny Lalruatsanga on Tuesday ordered the complete closure of all international entry points along the borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Under the order, all cross-border movement has been prohibited until further notice. Additionally, all forms of cross-border trade have been suspended as a precautionary step.
Symptoms match previous outbreak
Although laboratory confirmation of cholera is still awaited, the district magistrate said the symptoms closely resemble those observed during last month’s outbreak in Kakichhuah village. In that incident, several residents fell seriously ill and later died, raising concerns about a recurring pattern of infection.
The recent decision followed two deaths and the hospitalisation of five other patients in Lawngtlai town within a short span, triggering alarm among health authorities.
Siaha district also seals Myanmar border
The outbreak has also put neighbouring Siaha district on high alert. Additional Deputy Commissioner Abraham Beirazi Khithie issued an order late Tuesday evening sealing the district’s international border with Myanmar after four persons with suspected cholera symptoms were admitted to the Tipa Community Health Centre.
The suspected cases were reported from Lomasu, Lodaw, Lopu and Khaikhy villages. While the district had recorded at least three cholera-related deaths in November, officials confirmed that no fatalities have been reported so far this month.
Health authorities on alert
Health departments in both districts are closely monitoring the situation and have intensified surveillance in vulnerable areas. Authorities have urged residents to maintain strict hygiene, avoid unsafe water sources, and immediately report symptoms such as severe diarrhoea and dehydration.
Further measures are expected depending on laboratory results and the progression of the outbreak.
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