Papua New Guinea : PNG cholera death toll nearly 500

Via The News :

" NEARLY 500 people have died from Papua New Guinea's prolonged cholera outbreak, a top PNG medical official says.

Health Secretary Doctor Clement Malau has told PNG's National newspaper 483 people have died while 10,066 have been diagnosed with cholera since the first outbreak in September 2009.

Seven of PNG's 19 provinces, including the capital Port Moresby, have been affected by cholera with Dr Malau adding Western Province was the worst hit with 300 deaths.

"I am urging the provinces to sustain the response momentum and widen surveillance and awareness activities," he said.

"I appeal again to local authorities at the district and provincial levels to respond effectively to the cholera outbreaks in their areas."