Introduction:

Cholera is a disease with a high incidence and causing deaths in Mozambique. Cabo Delgado province is one of the most affected, and Metoro is recognized as a critical area (hot zone) for the occurrence of cholera. Disease prevention is essential, and knowledge is an important contributing factor.

Objectives:

To assess the knowledge about cholera among residents of the rural neighborhood of Cahora Bassa in the administrative post of Metoro.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study with a sample of 52 participants, selected by simple random sampling. Individual interviews were used to collect data, using an adapted semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and interpret the data, along with the content analysis technique.

Results:

100% of the participants reported having previous knowledge of cholera. 86.7% said that cholera was mainly spread by water and food contaminated by Vibrio cholerae. Other correct ways of spreading cholera were also highlighted, although 62% of participants wrongly said that cholera was spread by mosquitoes (plasmodium falciparum). In terms of prevention, sanitizing food and treating drinking water were the most common responses.

Conclusion:

The population is aware of cholera, especially preventative measures. However, errors in the factors linked to the spread of cholera were evident. Reinforcement of education and health promotion campaigns are recommended.

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