At least 108 infants died of respiratory ailments and other illnesses that affected six districts in Indonesia's easternmost province of Papua over the past two weeks.

The infants were among hundreds of infants and residents in the area who had exhibited symptoms such as vomiting, fever and diarrhea, Reverend John Scutts of Kemah Injil church was quoted by the daily Kompas here on Friday.

Scutts said that the figure would increase if hundreds of others suffering from such symptoms in the areas did not get help soon.

According to a medical official, the diseases are common, but become fatal in the absence of proper medical treatment.

The districts have community health centers, but they lack experienced medical staff and medicine, resulting in poor treatment of local residents.

Source: Xinhua