THERE were cholera patients in Yangon Region in early June 2024, and it was a regular occurrence during the annual rainy season. There were cholera outbreaks in some townships of Yangon Eastern District, including Thakayta Township. Some patients were transported to hospitals. There are no casualties to date.

Cholera is caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites which enter the stomach and intestines. These viruses can be infected via unclean food and contaminated water, as well as weakness of personal hygiene such as dirty hands, unhygienic toilets, and septic tanks.

In order to prevent severe cholera, people should avoid eating unclean food, drink clean water such as FDA-certified drinking water or water treated with water purification tablets or boiled water and wash their hands with soap before and after eating, as well as before and after using toilets, should use the clean toilet or safe septic tank, and should dispose of waste to reduce the fly population.

If someone is suffering from cholera, they should go to the nearest general hospital for medical treatment.

Ministry of Health

 6 July 2024

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