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Cholera in Malaysia

01 August 2012

An outbreak of cholera has been reported from Bintulu on the east coast of Sarawak, East Malaysia. The source of the infection is thought to be the Kemena River which was used to clean fish, cooking/eating utensils and hands during a regatta in the area.

As of 26 July 2012, the Health Department has recorded 140 suspected cholera cases, of which 33 tested positive, 55 were negative and results for 52 are awaited. Health authorities report that the outbreak has spread to 11 localities in Bintulu district.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers to outbreak areas who will be mixing closely with the local population and cannot ensure safe drinking water can be immunised against cholera. A high standard of food, water and personal hygiene should also be maintained.