DHAKA: A plague spread by rats has killed 39 people in recent weeks in Madagascar, the health ministry said on Thursday.

"There is an epidemic in Madagascar which is currently affecting five districts (out of 112). Eighty-six people have been inflicted by the plague, of which 39 have died," said the ministry in a statement.

Source: ST

BDST: 0155 HRS, DEC 13, 2013