Health officials at Torit hospital say at least seven people have died of cholera in Eastern Equatoria State since its outbreak was announced two days ago.

On Wednesday, the state ministry of health announced that cholera cases were reported in Torit, Nimule and Idale of Imehejek Lopa Corridor.

An administrator at Torit State Hospital, Abwoch James, says five adults and two children have so far died.

The minister of health in Eastern Equatoria, Dr. Margret Itto, says more than 180 cases have been registered at cholera treatment center at the health facility.

She said her ministry is doing its best to contain the situation.

“Cholera is a preventable disease. It is important that hygiene is maintained,” she said.

“We have deployed health officials and community health promoters plus our public health officers; they are going around to train people, to educate people to chlorinate their water,” she said.

Cholera is an infection of the small intestine, caused by drinking water or eating food that has been contaminated.

Its main symptoms are watery diarrhea and vomiting.

All primary and secondary schools have been shut down in an effort to stop the spread of the water-borne disease.