The cholera outbreak in Tanzania started on the 15th of August 2015, and as of 20th January 2016, the country had reported more than 14,000 cases, including 222 deaths (representing 1.6% case fatality rate).

The current outbreak is unique because of its vast geographical spread within a short time while containment has proved to be an enormous challenge. It has so far affected 25 of the 28 administrative regions of the country and Zanzibar.

Initial rapid assessments and water quality surveys revealed that the source of the outbreak is contaminated water from shallow wells, deep wells and water utility companies. Vibrio cholerae has been isolated from all these sources.

Poor hygiene practices and lack of sanitation facilities in poor households have been reported as underlying factors for the transmission.

With a predicted El Nino rainfall this year, similar to the one of 1997 that resulted in  a huge cholera outbreak, efforts are being stepped up rapidly so as to contain and control the outbreak.