DAR ES SALAAM, March 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese health experts on Wednesday organized a large-scale community outreach and free clinic in Tanzania's Zanzibar to promote safe water practices.

The event, organized by the expert team of the China-aided Zanzibar schistosomiasis prevention and control project in collaboration with the 35th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar, attracted more than 300 local residents, according to Wang Wei, leader of the project's expert team.

Wang said that as the rainy season intensifies across the region, fluctuating water levels and flooding have heightened the risk of contamination, raising concerns over waterborne diseases. In response, the Chinese health experts focused on strengthening public awareness of water safety and preventive health measures.

During educational sessions, specialists explained the transmission and infection mechanisms of schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease linked to contaminated freshwater. Targeted guidance was also provided for high-risk activities such as farming, fishing and children's outdoor play, with an emphasis on minimizing exposure and enhancing personal protection.

The team also addressed common rainy-season illnesses, including diarrhea and cholera, outlining how contaminated water and poor hygiene contribute to outbreaks.

In addition to health education, the outreach included free medical consultations, parasitic disease screenings, and chronic disease management services, benefiting hundreds of community members.

Community officer Omar Abuluda expressed his gratitude to the Chinese health experts, praising their role in strengthening grassroots disease prevention capacity. ■