Haiti fears spike in cholera cases as fuel blockade lifts

Cholera cases are overwhelming in Haiti as experts warn the situation could worsen now that the country is returning to its usual frenzied pace following a fuel blockade. At least 156 people have died and more than 6,900 are hospitalized, although officials believe the numbers are much higher because of under-reporting.

The number of patients seeking help at Doctors without Borders hospitals in the capital of Port-au-Prince have increased in recent weeks, with more than 6,500 admitted so far. The government does not have sufficient IV supplies and is still discussing whether to request cholera vaccines.   The disease is caused by a bacteria found in contaminated food or water and is easily transmitted, especially in crowded and unhygienic conditions.