The Mandalay region has seen an uptick in diarrhea cases across several townships, prompting the health department to implement preventive measures, including the administration of vaccines in schools and neighborhoods, as well as chemical treatments for water sources.

Since November, cases of diarrhea and related symptoms such as fever and vomiting have led to numerous hospitalizations. Clinics in local neighborhoods have also reported a steady stream of patients presenting these symptoms. 

According to a 60-year-old male resident who was treated in November, the illness began with fever resembling the flu, followed by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea severe enough to require hospitalization for two days.

Preventive efforts include health department staff visiting households to inspect sanitation facilities and applying chemicals to water sources such as wells and bottled drinking water. 

A resident from Chanmyathazi Township reported that these activities included instructions on how to safely use treated water to prevent further outbreaks.

Students in some schools, such as a high school in Mandalay, were administered oral cholera vaccines. A student recounted receiving drops of vaccine and observed that some peers experienced mild fevers afterward.

While social media users in Mandalay have shared posts raising awareness of the outbreak, the health department has not issued any recent official updates on its social media pages.

However, a prior announcement from November 18 confirmed the initiation of an oral cholera vaccination campaign in the Mandalay region, along with educational materials to raise public awareness about preventive measures.