HARARE, Feb. 3 (Xinhuanet) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) said here on Tuesday that the organization would remain on alert against a resurgence of a cholera outbreak which has killed 40 people in the country since November.

    The authorities this week declared the cholera outbreak which devastated the northern districts of Zimbabwe over, but the WHO said it was still monitoring the situation.

    "We have put in place mechanisms to ensure that we pick it up as soon as it resurfaces," said a WHO spokesman.

    "We can not completely kick out cholera; it's like a flu. You always have it now and then but we can always be alert to detect it early," the spokesman said.

    Cholera was first detected in the Mola area of Kariba district last November, where it killed 19 people and affected 600 others.     

    An infected corpse that was transferred for burial in neighboring Binga district triggered a fresh outbreak there, which resulted in a further 17 deaths and 101 cases which were successfully treated.

    The outbreak was declared over in December but new cases surfaced in January, resulting in four deaths, according to reports.

    The WHO spokesman said awareness among health personnel was a key weapon against the disease, which can cause death within 48 hours if not treated.

    "Wherever there is an increase in diarrhoea, health workers must test if it's cholera," he said.

    International organizations including the WHO, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies helped with funds and other resources to bring the scourge under control.

    Cholera is a highly contagious disease whose symptoms include diarrhoea and fits of vomiting. Enditem