Cholera: UN steps up fight

2008-12-04 16:15

Geneva - Aid agencies and the United Nations on Thursday stepped up efforts to help Zimbabwe combat the cholera epidemic, which has been declared a national emergency by the government there.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said a consignment of over 13 tons of medical supplies including infusion sets, antibiotics, needles and gloves had arrived at the capital Harare's airport on Wednesday night.

The World Health Organisation said it would supply $340 000 worth of medication and supplies to the stricken country.

The epidemic has so far killed 565 people since August, according to figures released by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

"UN agencies have been asked to redouble their efforts as the epidemic is taking on national proportions," Elisabeth Byrs, OCHA's spokesperson told AFP.

Nine of the ten provinces in the country have been affected, she added.

"The needs are great, we lack the most basic supplies such as blankets and plates in the hospitals, as well as soap and water purification tablets," said Byrs.

"The lack of hygiene is critical and we have to intensify awareness campaigns," said Byrs.

- AFP