Health - A cholera epidemic which hit Congo’s second largest city, Pointe-Noire, has left eight persons dead from the 289 cases reported, Radio Congo Friday quoted the Director of the Health office in Pointe-Noire, Jean-Pierre Michel Ndzondault, as saying.
The Congolese government blames the spread of the disease on the recent torrential rain in the city coupled with poor sanitation of the area.
Officials said if measures are not taken quickly, the epidemic could worsen during the forthcoming rainy season.
Congolese Health ministry said President Denis Sassou Nguesso had ordered emergency funds for the treatment of those affected.
Meanwhile, a Committee set up by the government to deal with the disease has solicited for support from several partners, including UNICEF, the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and all the health professionals.
Cholera which attacks the intestine is caused by a bacteria present in water and wet food.
Pointe-Noire is a city built in a swampy area with severe sanitation problems.
Pana 01/03/2013