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A DEADLY cholera outbreak is spreading rapidly in parts of Northern Niger – warns children’s charity Plan International.
In the past four days, reported cases in Tillaberi and Ayorou districts have shot up from eight to 149 and three people have died.
“Cholera can kill children within hours and time is of the essence when we battle against this outbreak,” says Dr Unni Krishnan, Head of Disaster Response and Preparedness at Plan International.
“Quick action is vital – concentrating on oral rehydration solution, clean water and promoting hygiene.”
“Children under five are some of the most at-risk, so they are at the centre of our response.”
Some reported cholera cases come from the TabareyBarey camp, which is home to thousands of Malian refugees.
“Plan is providing vital supplies and is working to spread public health messages in the refugee camp, where the outbreak has the potential to spread very rapidly,” says Dr Krishnan.
“We are asking refugees to report all suspected cases of cholera and to follow strict hygiene practices, such as washing hands and avoiding drinking, or washing with, river water.”
Local authorities have already temporarily closed Ayorou market and isolated the sick.
They are also providing emergency shelter, water purification tablets and rehydration medication.
For more information on Plan call 0300 777 9777 or visit www.plan-uk.org
Switchboard: 0300 777 9777 / +44 (0)20 7608 1311 (Non-UK) |
