2013-10-15 09:47:14

Cholera outbreak in central Mexico


(Vatican Radio) Mexico’s health authorities confirm a cholera outbreak of 159 cases, but more than 3,000 others are also likely infected.

The epicenter of the cholera epidemic is in the central State of Hidalgo, where 148 cases have been reported to date. Mexico's National Water Commission says the source of the infection is the Tecoluco River, which is contaminated with the virus, due to raw sewage mingling with drinking water.

Two cases have also been reported in Mexico City, and nine others in the neighbouring state.

The government has launched a nationwide hygiene campaign to try and contain the cholera outbreak and prevent it from spreading beyond four states.

The last time cholera swept through Mexico was in 2001. In the past month, there have been torrential rains from two simultaneous tropical storms and severe flooding, which have affected large swaths of the country.

Listen to the report by James Blears: RealAudioMP3








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