Suspected Cholera cases registered in Kurdistan Region: Health Minister

The Minister of Health of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) announced on Saturday that there are a number of suspected cases of cholera in different parts of the Kurdistan Region.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. People can get sick when they swallow food or water contaminated with cholera bacteria. The infection is often mild or without symptoms, but can sometimes be severe and life-threatening.

Health Minister Saman Barzanji told a news conference held in Raparin Health Directorate that the number of vomiting and diarrhea cases in the Kurdistan Region has increased and that many of them are suspected to be cholera cases.

"The main cause of diarrhea and vomiting is drinking water, as well as expired food, so anyone who suffers from diarrhea should visit the hospital as soon as possible," he said.

"We are coordinating with the Iraqi Ministry of Health to provide medical supplies to treat diarrhea, vomiting, and cholera," he added.

According to Dr. Barzanji, measures and programs to combat the disease have been set and will be issued with the relevant authorities.

Earlier on Saturday, two children were reported dead from diarrhea and vomiting at Dr. Jamal Ahmad Rashid's Pediatric Teaching Hospital in Slemani, the director of the hospital said.



PUKmedia