11 October 2011 – An outbreak of cholera was reported from Ghanikhil in the Shinwar district, Nangarhar, on 11 October 2011. A DEWS focal point in Ghanikhil reported 17 cases of acute watery diarrhoea admitted to hospital. Samples from three admitted cases were positive for Vibrio cholerae serotype Ogawa. No deaths were reported. Stream and open well water was considered the source of infection.

The following steps were taken by the investigation team to control the outbreak.

• Cases were detected and managed at the hospital
• Cases were reported in a timely manner and a team was established to conduct a field investigation and active case finding
• Samples were taken from patients
• Wells and water sources in the affected area were chlorinated
• Health facility staff received on-the-job orientation of cholera
• Communities received health education on hygiene and safe drinking-water
• The investigation team conducted a follow-up visit in the affected area to ensure that there were no new cases.