Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Fides Service) - Over the past two weeks there have been 5,700 cases of cholera, 61 of them mortal mainly in the region of Diourbel, 140 km east of Dakar. Senegal’s health authorities say it is the worst epidemic since the mid 1990s.
The epidemic coincided with the annual 'Grand Magal' Muslim pilgrimage which brings hundreds of thousands to the town of Touba, putting a heavy burden on health structures and endangering sanitary conditions, favouring the spread of diseases.
The most affected towns where despite preventive measures adopted by the local health authorities the epidemic is spreading at a concerning rate are Pikine (near Dakar), Kaolak, Mbour (centre), Longa (north) and Tambacounda (east). Since the first cases were reported on March 28 many patients are being successfully treated in hospitals and released within 48 hours.
Last year in Senegal 1,371 cases of cholera were reported, 11 were lethal. According to the World Health Organisation in all Africa at least 1,600 died of cholera in 2004.
Cholera causes vomiting and diarrhoea with consequent acute dehydration and death in 24 hours unless it is treated. Infection can be prevented by washing of hands before eating and not drinking dirty water. Many lives could be saved simply with a mixture of water and mineral salts. (AP) (12/4/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:20 Parole:243)
