Cholera Spreads across the Nation . . . 80 Patients

As the cholera that began in Youngchon City, North Kyongsang province spreads across the nation, there are concerns over a `second wave` due to patients who were not quarantined early enough.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) confirmed the first reported case of cholera in Kimpo City, Kyongki province on the 6th and 37 additional cases, announcing that the cases have increased to 80 patients.

Cases of cholera according to region are: Youngchon 42, Kyongju 16, Taegu 12, Kyongsan 4, Youngduk 2, Ulsan 1, Kimpo 1. Also, there are 35 patients who are showing signs of cholera.

``Of the additional confirmed cholera cases, the patient who was infected at Youngchon restaurant, `25 Hour Meeting Plaza` We are estimating that his family got a second wave infection.`` said an NIH source.

``We will find everyone who was infected at the restaurant this week. However, after this week, a second wave infection is possible and especially worrisome are cases infected by unknowing restaurant workers.`` added the source. Only 954 people have been located for quarantine of the 2000 who ate at the restaurant. There are concerns about the 1000 who may be infected and are spreading it to their families and neighbors. In order to prevent a second wave, the NIH is enforcing health inspections for everyone engaged in group eating facilities such as schools and dormitories, and requesting that people should boil water before drinking it.

``We are imposing temporary quarantines for the present 650 cases. If we include those whom we have not tracked down, there may be up to 200 cholera patients.`` said the source.

Meanwhile, the North Kyongsangdo Ministry of Education stopped food service to the 180 students at Kokyoung Grade School and Kokyoung Junior High School.

Jung Young-Gwan yongari@donga.com