CHRONICLE FROM THE DISTRICTS We draw attention AFTER CHOLERA, ALBANIA IS THREATENED BY ANOTHER EPIDEMIC, TYPHUS Shkodër: EVERYTHING READY The floor, with a few cracks left in it and carefully sprinkled, the wide bed with sheet metal painted with oil paint, is ready to receive the sick. The necessary documentation is on a makeshift table. Towels, soap, chloramine, and other necessary detergents are in a cabinet nearby. This is how the infectious ward of Puka hospital looks up close, where, under the care of doctors and nurses, everything has been organized to make it possible to receive and treat any possible case. Although so far no suspected case has been recorded, measures have been taken seriously. In the district hospital center the beds, disinfecting equipment and staff have been put on standby. According to the heads of the health service, the risk of another epidemic, typhus, remains real because of the condition of drinking water and hygiene in some areas. In addition to the doctors, the local authorities have also been put on standby. Guidelines have been issued for water inspection, cleaning of the environment and rapid intervention in the first suspected cases. The population is advised to maintain personal hygiene and immediately report any symptom. In health circles it is emphasized that prevention remains the best weapon. (To be continued on page 11) Përmet: A THREATENED SITUATION In the town and in the villages measures have been taken, but water sources and the lack of disinfection in some neighborhoods are causing concern. Public areas are being inspected, while the health service has been put on standby. Residents are advised to boil drinking water and take special care with food. NISA VULTULA

At Qafë-Botë the crossing to Greece is blocked. At other border checkpoints, there are no particular problems. In the absence of official information, travelers express concern about delays and stops. In some cases, additional documents have been requested, while traffic has been interrupted for hours. According to local sources, the situation arose suddenly and without clear explanations for citizens. At Hani i Hotit the queues are growing, while crossing is becoming difficult. At Qafë-Botë similar obstacles are reported for those traveling toward Greece. However, at other border checkpoints the situation appears calmer and with no visible problems. At the customs post of Hani i Hotit.

In the focus of the week Counter-reactions, Tirana - Athens Does this contribute to the climate needed for dialogue? The issue that seems to be at the center of attention concerns Albanian-Greek relations and the way political and public reactions are affecting the climate for dialogue. The analysis emphasizes that the mutual statements and counterstatements of recent days do not help rapprochement; on the contrary, they create a harsher and more tense ground. Recent events, according to observers, have produced a situation in which the sides seem inclined to defend their positions in strong tones. This climate risks replacing the need for reasonable communication and for institutional ways of resolving problems. The question raised is whether such reactions serve a more normal relationship between Tirana and Athens. (To be continued on page 11)

Postkovi Yesterday morning in many places across the country was accompanied by announcements and special measures from health services. In various centers, inspections, advice to the population and increased vigilance are reported. In some areas, suspected cases have also been mentioned, which has increased people's concern. At the same time, the authorities are calling for calm, stating that preventive measures have been strengthened. But on the ground the situation is considered serious and requires broad cooperation between institutions and citizens. (To be continued on page 3)

Korçë Is there a plague in Korça? It seems as though everything is being assessed carefully in this city, but the question remains open because of the condition of the water and hygiene. Citizens speak of the need for quicker interventions and stricter control of water sources. Doctors, meanwhile, are calling for greater attention and immediate reporting of suspected cases. (To be continued on page 2)

after the reports “dangerous cholera” Although the weight of the official announcements is not yet complete, public concern remains high. In some circles it is said that the possible outbreak points are near and that immediate measures are needed for disinfection, water control and public information. Residents are calling for clarity and quicker answers. (To be continued on page 11)

A.A. In the Albanian capital, the Serbs had killed 15-20 thousand and more Albanians and many houses had been burned, said Daut Gumi of the Muhaxhirëve Association. Daut Gumi (from Përmet) on the autumn uprising of 1943 and its connection with Serbian massacres in Kosovo and Albania. A.A. Korçë It seems that everything is being carefully assessed by the residents, but the question is open because of the condition of the water and hygiene. (To be continued on page 2) A.A. After the reports “dangerous cholera” the outbreaks have opened up and are very close... (To be continued on page 11) A.A. In the National Committee of Veterans of the National Liberation War, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Liberation, lists are being reviewed and names for decorations and honorary titles are being discussed. (To be continued on page 11) A.A. Since 16 September 1994, the Presidency of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Albania has decided to return to the LANC society a plot of land in Tirana, unjustly confiscated by the former regime. (To be continued on page 11) A.A. In Xhafzotaj, Kavajë, members of the Socialist Party section held a meeting with voters and discussed community problems, water supply and the political situation. A.A. N. Xhomo: “A grand action in support of the Albanian village” concerning the planting campaign and the organization of volunteers. A.A. The democratic transition in Albania, the challenges of the opposition and its positioning in political life. A.A. On the activity of the Socialist Party Committee of Korçë and contacts with the organizational base. A.A. On cultural activity in the city and district, as well as preparations for the artistic season.