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Cholera in Cuba (Update)

30 Aug 2012

The Cuban government has declared that the cholera outbreak has been contained, as more than 10 days have elapsed since the last new case was recorded.

A total of 417 cases and 3 deaths have been recorded according to official records.

The outbreak began in July 2012, and was the first in Cuba in more than 100 years. It is not known how the infection was introduced but the outbreak spread due to contaminated drinking wells in the eastern city of Manzanillo, Granma province, following heavy rains.

The Health Ministry has declared the outbreak over, however, the authorities will remain vigilant.

Advice for Travellers

Cholera risk outwith the outbreak area is negligible for travellers. All travellers should continue to practise strict food and water hygiene and wash their hands frequently, especially before eating.