Business in cholera-hit Zambian capital slowly back to normal: minister

LUSAKA, Jan. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government said Monday that business in Lusaka, the country's capital, was slowly coming back to normal following measures put in place to contain the cholera outbreak.

Minister of Health Chitalu Chilufya said measures put in place have lead to reopening of some businesses closed during the outbreak.

He told reporters that six businesses, including four fast food outlets, have been reopened after inspectors assured of safety measures they have put in place.

"We are slowly sliding back into normal operations for businesses," he said.

He further said health authorities were working closely with the local authority and farmers' body to establish a safety place for farmers to sell their fresh produce.

He revealed that 100 new cholera cases have been recorded, with one death in the last 24 hours, bringing cumulative figures to about 2,600 since the outbreak last October.

Minister of Local Government Vincent Mwale said public gathering in areas hard-hit by the cholera outbreak will not be entertained.

He said drinking places in non-affected areas will only be allowed to operate from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in order not to kill manufacturers of alcoholic beverages. Enditem