KOTA KINABALU: Two more new cholera cases were reported yesterday, bringing the total number of cholera cases in the state to 21.

Health and People’s Well-being Minister Datuk Frankie Poon said the cases were each detected in Beaufort and Semporna.

“All of the cases surfaced between  May 29 and July 1, which is slightly over one month, due to contamination of water and food.

“The youngest person infected was a one-year-old baby, while the oldest was 80- years-old,” he said after a medical aid handover ceremony at the State Health Department here, Thursday.

Also present was State Health Director Datuk Dr Christina Rundi.

The assistance comprised 25 units of oxygen concentrator donated by Temasek Foundation which will be distributed to hospitals across Sabah.

Poon said the consumption of uncooked or raw food and use of utensils not washed with treated water were among the causes of bacterial infection that leads to cholera.

“Cholera symptoms such as diarrhoea can be deadly if not treated, particularly among babies and children, as it causes loss of body fluids.

“It is therefore important that we take the necessary preventive measures by drinking boiled or bottled water, washing our hands prior to eating or handling food and after going to the toilet, and ensuring that seafood and meat are properly cooked before consumption,” he stressed.