Cholera Outbreaks in Zimbabwe: An In-Depth Analysis of Drivers, Constraints and Reimagining the Use of Medicinal Plants.

IF 2.1 4区 医学 Q3 PUBLIC, ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Journal of Tropical Medicine Pub Date : 2024-11-21 eCollection Date: 2024-01-01 DOI:10.1155/jotm/1981991
Jerikias Marumure, Monde A Nyila
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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Cholera, an intestinal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae, poses a severe threat to public health, particularly in developing countries. This narrative review discusses drivers for cholera outbreaks, challenges and viable alternatives, in Zimbabwe. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases notably ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and PubMed, as well as thesis and conference papers. Evidence indicates that the epidemiology, as well as risk factors, includes (1) extreme droughts; (2) political meddling in health issues and water supply; (3) natural disasters; (4) migration; (5) problems with water and sanitation; and (6) the endemic nature of the causative agent as well as its development of drug resistance. Reliable supply of clean water and proper sanitation and hygiene as the main key to prevention is emphasised. The use of antibiotics and vaccines for therapy, as well as the use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine, is discussed. Kirkia acuminata and Ziziphus mucronata root and stem bark infusions or decoctions were revealed to be the most common folklore treatments for cholera in rural communities. The potential of medicinal plants as anti-Vibrio cholerae remedies based on their positive antibacterial assays, and mechanism of action is also presented. Finally, the development of innovative anti-Vibrio cholerae therapeutics based on natural leads and compounds and adapted for use in resource-constrained cholera-prone areas is viewed as a potential option, to complement cholera prevention and treatment, particularly in resource-limited endemic areas.

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来源期刊
Journal of Tropical Medicine
Journal of Tropical Medicine Immunology and Microbiology-Parasitology
CiteScore
3.90
自引率
4.50%
发文量
0
审稿时长
14 weeks
期刊介绍: Journal of Tropical Medicine is a peer-reviewed, Open Access journal that publishes original research articles, review articles, and clinical studies on all aspects of tropical diseases. Articles on the pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of tropical diseases, parasites and their hosts, epidemiology, and public health issues will be considered. Journal of Tropical Medicine aims to facilitate the communication of advances addressing global health and mortality relating to tropical diseases.
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