By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

In an update on the diphtheria outbreak in Venezuela, the outbreak that began three years ago is ongoing.

Image/Robert Herriman

According to data from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) (computer translated), Venezuela has reported 324 diphtheria cases since the beginning of the year, including 15 fatalities.

To date, nine federal entities, 10 municipalities, and 14 parishes are affected by the outbreak.

Since July 2016, Venezuela has seen a total of 2,897 suspected cases, which 1721 were confirmed. In that period, 286 deaths have been recorded.

Cases have been reported among all age groups. The incidence rate among children under
15-year-olds is 4 cases per 100,000 population, among 15 to 40-year-olds is 3 cases per 100,000
population, and among persons over 40-year-olds is 1 case per 100,000 population, the UN agency reports.

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