Three die in diarrhea outbreak

SEMARANG, Central Java: Three people have died and dozens others were hospitalized when diarrhea hit the Wonosobo regency, an official said Thursday.

"Many of those hospitalized returned home after they recovered," acting Wonosobo regent Husein Moenawar said as quoted by Antara.

He identified the deceased as Abu Ngamar, 70, Umi Latifah, 3.5, and a five-month-old baby that he did not name.

He said that the first break out was reported in Kalibeber village, which spread to six subdistricts in less than a month.

The provincial government has sent medical supplies and personnel to the affected areas. The regency government has also requested all hospitals and clinics to remain open 24 hours a day.

Doctors said that many of the patients admitted to the hospital are still in critical condition. (pan)