12 December 2008 -- A widespread cholera outbreak and inadequate access to safe drinking water and hygiene are threatening the wellbeing of thousands of Zimbabweans. Shortages of medicines, equipment and staff at health facilities throughout the country are compounding the health challenges.

The outbreak could surpass 60 000 cases, according to estimates by the Zimbabwe Health Cluster, which is a group coordinated by WHO and comprising health providers, NGOs and the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare