Diarrhea kills 26 people

JAMBI, Jambi: At least 26 people have been killed by outbreaks of diarrhea in 14 villages in the coastal Tanjung Jabung regency during the last three months, the Antara news agency reported.

Jambi Health Office chief Abdul Hamid said a total of 650 people have been affected by diarrhea and the 14 villages have since been officially declared as under an "emergency condition" that entitles them to priority for various treatments and medical supplies.

The severe water shortages caused by the long dry spell have further exacerbated the problem, Abdul said. (emb)