Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) says women and children have been highly affected by the cholera outbreak in the country.

MRCS Communications and Humanitarian Diplomacy Manager, Felix Washon disclosed when giving the progress of the door to door sensitization campaign, they are conducting in cholera hot spot areas across the country.

“We are making head way in the campaign. The volunteers are sensitizing the households on hygiene practices and also spreading information on cholera and its preventive measures,” he explained.

Washon further added that: “The cases are now reducing in some areas which is really good, but in most parts of Karonga district the cases are still rampant.”

However, Washon disclosed that women and children have been highly affected with the outbreak because they are over-exposed to harsh and unhygienic conditions in their domestic homes.

“It is sad to note that a higher population that has been affected with the outbreak is that of women and children unlike men who are always running up and down,” he said.

Cholera is airborne disease that is caused by unhygienic practices, and currently most parts of Karonga, Lilongwe and Salima have been affected with the outbreak.