Water, food banned at BF

Raymond Jaravaza

WATER in plastic bottles, food and all forms of refreshments have been banned at Barbourfields Stadium in a measure meant to curb the spread of cholera, B-Metro has been briefed.

Last Sunday, before a Highlanders versus Cranborne Bullets match, fans and journalists making their way into the VIP section of the stadium were shocked when they were ordered to leave water and any form of refreshments, even in plastic containers outside the stadium.

The private security hired to man the gates at the stadium told this publication that the order was made by PSL.

“We were told not to allow anyone with water, food or refreshments because of the cholera outbreak. So it’s either you drink your water, refreshments and eat your food outside the stadium or leave your things with us and collect them after the game.

“You can only buy refreshments and water in the kiosk in the stadium,” a bouncer from a local gym told a group of supporters.

But strangely, PSL media and liaison officer Kudzai Bare said she was not aware of such a ban.

“The PSL is still enforcing the ban on alcohol as well as any items such as bottles, cans and cooler boxes which can be used as missiles by rioting fans. Let me check and get back to you,” said Bare.

She had not done so by Thursday afternoon.

Outbreak of cholera has been reported in some parts of the country.

Two weeks ago, authorities in Bikita banned food at mass gatherings such as weddings and funerals.

Bikita District had been an epicentre of the disease with 12 people succumbing to the contagious disease in one month and with as many as over 150 cases. 

In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Child Care said the measure will be in place until the health challenge has been contained.

“In light of the current cholera outbreak in our district, this office writes to enforce the provisions of the Public Health Act CP 15:17 Section 46.

“We effect that no gatherings that provide food will be sanctioned until our outbreak subsides.

“All deaths be notified to Ministry of Health and Child Care. All funerals be supervised by health staff and not provide food.

“Please be guided accordingly. In the interest of Public Health,” said the ministry in a statement.

Cholera is an infection of the small intestine by some strains of the bacterium Vibrio cholera and symptoms may range from none, to mild, to severe. The classic symptom is large amounts of watery diarrhoea lasting a few days.

Vomiting and muscle cramps may also occur.

Severe cases of the disease may result in sunken eyes, cold skin, decreased skin elasticity, and wrinkling of the hands and feet.