Abstract:
Locally manufactured sodium hypochlorite (chlorine) solution has been sold in Zimbabwe since 2010.
During October 1, 2011–April 30, 2012, 4,181 suspected and 52 confirmed cases of typhoid fever were identified in
Harare. In response to this outbreak, chlorine tablets were distributed. To evaluate household water treatment uptake,
we conducted a survey and water quality testing in 458 randomly selected households in two suburbs most affected by the
outbreak. Although 75% of households were aware of chlorine solution and 85% received chlorine tablets, only 18% had
reportedly treated stored water and had the recommended protective level of free chlorine residuals. Water treatment
was more common among households that reported water treatment before the outbreak, and those that received free
tablets during the outbreak (P < 0.01), but was not associated with chlorine solution awareness or use before the outbreak
(P > 0.05). Outbreak response did not build on pre-existing prevention programs.
