KUALA LUMPUR An outbreak of cholera, which has already killed one person, spread further in areas near the Malaysian capital as health authorities sought to identify the source of the disease, DPA reported on Tuesday.

The Selangor State Health Department said the number of victims infected with the highly contagious disease rose to 204 on Monday after the outbreak was detected earlier this month.

Selangor Chief Minister Mohamed Khir Toyo said health authorities suspect the disease might have been spread by illegal foreign workers, who did not undergo the necessary medical tests before they can be employed.

Cholera is spread through consumption of contaminated water and food handled by carriers. The disease can be fatal to victims who suffer severe vomiting and diarrhea.

The ***New Straits Times*** daily said 132 food outlets in Selangor's Meru District had been ordered shut after inspection by health officers.

About 200 samples of food have also been analyzed but were found clear of contamination.

Selangor Health Director Shahidah Abdul Manaff advised all hospitals and clinics in the state to immediately report any cases of diarrhea to authorities.