Environmental Health Workers: Zimbabwe’s Unsung Heroes in the Fight Against Cholera

MUTARE, Zimbabwe – The relentless battle against Zimbabwe’s recent cholera outbreak is slowly yielding positive results, thanks in large part to the tireless efforts of a group often overlooked: Environmental Health Workers (EHWs).

Operating under the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, EHWs are the backbone of the country’s decentralized cholera response. Their duties extend far beyond simply reacting to outbreaks.

« Our responsibility extends beyond responding to outbreaks, » says Lovemore, an EHW on the frontlines in Mutare,according to a recent WHO report. « We strive to prevent them altogether. »

Lovemore and his colleagues are the cornerstone of preventative measures. They spearhead community education campaigns, emphasizing the critical importance of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices (WASH). By empowering communities to take charge of their own health, EHWs are laying the groundwork for a future less susceptible to outbreaks.

But their work doesn’t stop there. EHWs are also instrumental in managing funerals during outbreaks, ensuring deceased individuals are handled safely to prevent further spread of the disease. They play a crucial role in coordinating the emergency response, working tirelessly alongside healthcare professionals to contain the outbreak and treat those affected.

Despite their critical role, EHWs often toil in the shadows. Their dedication and expertise are essential for safeguarding public health, yet their contributions can go largely unnoticed.

As Zimbabwe emerges from this recent outbreak, the spotlight must shine on the vital role played by EHWs. Their commitment to prevention, community engagement, and outbreak response makes them the unsung heroes on the frontlines of public health battles.