According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of July 14, a total of 581 cases of cholera had been reported and 19 victims had died with a fatality rate of 3.27 percent. The officials added that the case rate has been growing since July.

A recent announcement from the State Administration of Quality Supervision and Quarantine requested that passengers arriving in China from Cote d'Ivoire tell immigration authorities if they are experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.

All persons afflicted with cholera or suspected of having contracted the illness will be held in accordance with relevant laws.

Security checks will intensify on all arrivals from Cote d' Ivoire, including vehicles, cargoes, containers, luggages and mailed parcels. Some goods, including aquatic products, fruits, vegetables and drinks may not be released without permission from quarantine authorities.

Passengers traveling to Cote d'Ivoire will be informed of the risk of cholera and advised to take precautions, according to the announcement.

(Xinhua News Agency August 21, 2002)