Twelve people have died in a cholera epidemic in Tanzania, where the government is optimistic the situation will be brought under control soon.

Over the past seven days, 600 cases have been reported in the relatively large east African country, which has a population of around 37 million.

The Handeni district in the northeastern region of Tanga was hit the hardest, with 511 cases of cholera reported, the country's Health Ministry spokesman Nsachris Mwamaja told reporters on Monday.

He added that the government is doing everything within its power to contain the spread of the water-borne disease and treat patients by ensuring adequate supplies of medicine required.

Handeni District Commissioner Seif Mpembenwe said he was glad the situation was getting better and expected to see positive results by the end of the month.

Cholera can also be transmitted by water and food that has been in contact with sewage. It causes serious diarrhea and vomiting, leading to body dehydration. With a short incubation period, it can be fatal if not treated in time.

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