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FAMILIES in Cameroon are in the grip of another deadly cholera outbreak, reports children’s charity Plan International.
Most new cases of the waterborne disease are in the central region of the country.
Poor health and hygiene conditions are the main cause for the rapid spread, combined with a lack of safe water.
The capital Yaounde has reported the most cases with 1564 infected.
In the worst affected division, Mfoundi, there were 500 new cases last week alone, with 46 deaths.
But reliable data on the number and type of cases is scarce, prompting Plan to work with the government on improving the reporting process.
Last autumn, 200 people in Cameroon were killed by cholera, a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food or water.
The charity has launched a £120,000 project to help combat news cases of the disease with local partners and the health ministry.
“Public awareness raising on health and hygiene practice through trained volunteers will soon commence,” says Plan’s country director in Cameroon Barro Famari.
“We’ll also carry out disinfection of latrines and public water points, as well as supporting the referral and treatment of cases.”
Plan’s response team has also produced an information pack with other NGOs for those at risk
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For further information visit www.plan-uk.org
