12 die of malaria in Khagrachhari in a month

Five of deaths were in Ramgarh upazila, according to official sources at in Ramgarh. Seven others were in other areas of the district.

Scores of people including women and children are also suffering from the diseases, they said.

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The most affected areas are Patachhara, Nakapa, Taichala, Chowdhury Para, Master Para, Jagannat Para, Daragapara, Fenirkul and Sadukatharpara under Ramghar, Mahalchhari and Dighinala upazilas.

They said incidence of attack by a deadly fever locally called "hill malaria" has increased with the onset of the monsoon.

But necessary drugs are scarce. Though three doctors are posted at the upazila health complex, but none stays at their workplace, they alleged.

Only one 'community doctor' is attending about 250 patients everyday, they claimed.

When contacted, the community doctor said malaria will soon turn epidemic if urgent steps are not taken. The doctor said children are very much vulnerable to the diseases.

The officials said health ministry has been informed about the problem.