BEIJING - In a move to prevent the spread of cholera, China's quality watchdog said on Wednesday that local authorities must implement medical inspections and disinfection routines on persons and vehicles from countries with cholera.

From September to October29 this year, Mexico reported 176 cholera cases causing one death. The virus found in a Mexican patient was similar to that in Haiti, Dominica and Cuba, according to a recent World Health Organization report.

The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) said people who have been to those countries and have symptoms such as vomitting and diarrhea should inform local AQSIQ bureaus ?immediately. Travellers in these countries should avoid possible contaminated water and food.

In addition, the AQSIQ requires local bureaus to intensify inspections and make medical treatment a priority on any patients infected with cholera.

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection that causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea, leading to serious dehydration and can be fatal if not properly treated.