The outbreak of an unknown disease has claimed the lives of no less than 20 children in Afghanistan’s southern Helmand province, says provincial director of information and culture, Hafiz Rashid.
On Wednesday, the official said the infected children died over the past few days in the Baghran district.
“The reason for the outbreak of the disease could be drinking contaminated water,” said Mr Rashid.
The official added that some affected people, including children, had received treatment at a local health centre.
The lack of infrastructure facilities, including health centres and access to potable water in Afghanistan’s far-flanged areas, has made local villagers prone to death due to curable diseases.