BLANTYRE, Malawi, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- Health authorities have expressed concern over the growing prevalence of cholera in Malawi, with at least three deaths and more than 50 confirmed cases recorded since October 2025.
Minister of Health and Sanitation Madalitso Baloyi voiced concern on Wednesday during a sensitization meeting with the authorities of the commercial city of Blantyre, which is leading in the number of cases.
According to the minister, Blantyre has the highest prevalence of the cholera outbreak, with two deaths and 30 cases recorded in the city alone.
She also confirmed the recent detection of one case of poliovirus type 2 in Blantyre, noting that the samples were sent to South Africa for laboratory tests, where they turned out positive.
Director of Health and Social Services for Blantyre Gift Kawalazira attributed the outbreaks to poor sanitation, among other factors.
According to Kawalazira, the poliovirus was detected in a 7-year-old boy in Blantyre who had never been vaccinated since birth due to his parents' beliefs.
Malawian government officials are working with the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund and other organizations to contain the outbreaks through vaccinations and public awareness campaigns on hygiene. ■