Cholera outbreak in Papua New Guinea
Men constructing a temporary rainwater collection tank for the cholera-affected community in Moim Village in East Sepik Province of PNG. Photo: Jennifer
Worthington/OxfamAUS
An outbreak of cholera is affecting communities along the Sepik River – the largest river system in Papua New Guinea – in East Sepik province. A total of 340 cholera cases and 10 deaths have been recorded so far.
A World Health Organization specialist participated in an assessment of the area in November 2009 and reported acute water, sanitation and hygiene needs, including a lack of access to clean drinking water. Many of the communities are isolated and have to rely on dirty water from the river for drinking and washing – there is no special area for washing and people often also use the river as a toilet.
In order to stop the water-borne disease from spreading, people need access to safe water supplies and an awareness of good hygiene and sanitation practices.
Oxfam is there
Sepik River Photo: Jennifer Worthington/OxfamAUS
If the spread of cholera is not contained, it has the potential to affect more villages within the East Sepik Province. Right now we’re assisting 1400 households comprising the worst-affected and most vulnerable families by:
- Helping set up emergency rainwater catchments for a source of clean water in a number of villages
- Distributing hygiene kits including soap, bucket, jerry cans and oral rehydration sachets
- Training locals in hygiene promotion
Our goal is to make sure that people have access to safe, sufficient and emergency water supplies, and an awareness of adequate hygiene practices.
You can help
By donating to our International Crisis Fund you will ensure that people, like those in East Sepik Papua New Guinea, have access to clean and safe water supplies.