From The Plague Horrors of Cholera, What Partnership Lessons Can Be Learnt in Addressing COVID-19 In Zambia

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 on 31 December 2019, different public health systems have been grappling with how to address the spread of the virus. During the cholera outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic in Zambia, values such as equity, partnership and collaboration have been recognized as central to resilience and an effective response to the pandemic. In this study we identify lessons that can be used for addressing the COVID-19 pandemic from partnership approach used in confronting the cholera outbreak of 2017-2018 in Zambia, Chipata Compound. MethodData was collected using a qualitative approach; 26 interviews were conducted with Public Health Professionals and community Leaders. Document reviews from government institutions and non-government institutions were also conducted. The Bergen model of Collaborative Functioning was used to guide the analysis of data. ResultsA top-down approach was observed to be important in addressing cholera but there was a need to improve a bottom-up approach. Synergistic results, avoidance of duplication, Oral cholera vaccination intervention and collaborative capacity building. Challenges in the partnership collaboration included inadequate resources, poor communication, poor coordination, lack of clear shared vision, reactive response, poor involvement of the community, hegemonic powers and mistrust and resentment ConclusionFrom the experience of cholera outbreaks, partnerships are vital in addressing pandemics. Based on the lessons from the cholera outbreaks, we note that there is a need to improve collaboration in partnership if COVID-19 and cholera are to be effectively addressed.