Zimbabwe (MNN) — Cholera has reappeared in Zimbabwe,
raising the spectre of another deadly epidemic.
Between late 2008 through the midway point of this year, more
than 4,200 people died from the disease. The World Health Organization
said reported cases totaled some 98,000.
This time, the rough passage of 2008 may have taught
life-saving lessons. Even though the disease has reappeared, the
numbers are far less than they were at this same time last year.
Coupled with the collapse of Zimbabwe's economy, the
operation of public hospitals and clinics deteriorated, resulting in an
increasing number of deaths from preventable diseases.
Global Aid Network responded by shipping a mobile medical
clinic in August. It took months to arrive, but it has already
been christened in outreach.
A team is heading to Gokwe, Dinga, Mudzi and Muzarabani and the
surrounding rural areas next month. Charles Debter with Global Aid Network says, "There is very little
medical care available at all there. It's an area in which Life Ministries Zimbabwe, our
local partner, has not had opportunities to reach out with the
Gospel."
The clinic will offer medical services including treatment
of cholera, malaria, vaccinations, basic health care and medical supplies. Their
team is also involved in clean water projects to stem the spread of water-borne
illnesses. On top of all that, Debter says they're showing The JESUS Film.
The work they do is at the heart of the vision of Global Aid
Network. Debter explains, "It's a
wish and a desire to reach out with the compassion of Christ in areas that have
been hard hit by this type of disease, as well as to have a place that would be
almost like a magnet, where people come for the need of physical care, and
where they can also hear the good news of Christ."
