An outbreak of diarrheal disease continues to spread in Kyaikkhami, Thanbyuzayat Township, Mon State. According to local residents, the disease is now affecting not only fishermen but also other townspeople.
In early September, six fishermen working on mechanized and traditional boats off the coast of Kyaikkhami succumbed to the illness. Although no new fatalities have been reported, the number of cases has continued to rise, with hundreds now receiving treatment at Kyaikkhami Hospital, a local relief worker said.
“The situation is still ongoing. The disease is spreading more among the local population, though cases among fishermen have decreased. Some of the patients are recovering, but the initial outbreak was severe. While the death toll hasn’t increased, there are still a significant number of people experiencing diarrhea,” said the relief worker.
Initially, the disease predominantly affected fishermen with weakened immune systems and poor hygiene. However, as it has now spread within the town, authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions.
The relief worker siad “The outbreak isn’t due to food, but mainly from water contamination. The unsanitary conditions in areas without proper latrines contribute to the spread. Flies, lack of clean facilities, and open defecation have all played a role.”
As a preventive measure, local authorities ordered the temporary closure of restaurants, food stalls, and roadside vendors from September 10 onward. Public health workers, along with Red Cross volunteers, are distributing chlorine tablets and providing health education to prevent further spread of the disease, according to reports from locals.
