The Minister of Health in Central Equatoria State, Felix Lado, says 16 new cases of cholera have been reported today.

The national ministry of health declared the outbreak of the epidemic yesterday. More than 18 people have died of the disease since the beginning of the month.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by eating contaminated food or water it affects children and adults.

It can kill in a matter of hours due to rapid dehydration.

Yesterday, the National Minister of Health, Riek Gai Kok, said 171 cases of the epidemic had been recorded countrywide.

The new cases in Central Equatoria now bring the total number of reported cases to 187 in less than a month.

The public is advised to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.

People can call 777 to seek emergency assistance, or report suspected cases of the epidemic on 0955 66 81 48.