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JAKARTA: Indonesian health authorities will launch an immunization drive next week to contain a sharp rise in cases of diphtheria, which has killed at least 32 people, including many children, in the world?s fourth most populous country this year.

The health ministry said at least 591 cases had been reported since January, a 42 percent increase from last year, and called the outbreak an ?extraordinary event?.

?We have seen an acceleration in cases compared to last year ... We are implementing an immunization program to prevent a pandemic,? said Dr Mohamad Subuh, director general of disease prevention and control, at the ministry.

The ministry recorded 415 cases and 24 deaths last year.

Indonesia has among the world?s highest rates of diphtheria - along with India and sub-Saharan African countries - even though vaccinations have helped minimize global cases over the past 30 years.

The World Health Organisation recorded about 7,000 cases around the world last year. In 1980, the figure was 100,000.

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that spreads through close physical contact or through the air and can be fatal. Symptoms include fever and a sore throat, and the airway can sometimes become blocked.

None of those affected in Indonesia had been vaccinated against the disease. The rise in cases was attributed to several reasons, including some people rejecting vaccinations and a lack of access to healthcare, Subuh said.

The Pediatric Society of Indonesia urged the public to participate in vaccination programs.

?Immunization is the best protection,? it said.

Immunizations will be carried out in the capital, Jakarta, and two neighboring provinces, which have reported the highest concentration of new cases.

The campaign would be stepped up in other regions from January.