CARACAS, Feb. 14 (Xinhuanet) -- Sanitary authorities of Venezuela declared a state of sanitary alert on Monday to prevent an epidemic outbreak in the states affected by heavy rains.

    Heavy rains hit the country in the past week, leaving at least 38 dead, tens of others missing and thousands homeless.

    Health and Social Development Minister Francisco Armada announced at a press conference that he has worked out a control plan to reduce risks of a dengue-fever outbreak in the affected zones.

    He added that the authorities are ready to control mosquitoes.

    Armada said there are diarrhea, asthma, respiratory infections and skin problems in some areas.

    Governor of Merida Florencio Tovar said Monday that some 52 people were missing in the state. Enditem