'Malnutrition' deaths in Colombia

Colombia's indigenous communities total about one million people

Colombia's officials are investigating reports that dozens of children have recently died from malnutrition in the north-western province of Choco.

One hospital in the region has said that 37 babies and children died from illnesses linked to malnutrition in a two-month period.

The victims were believed to be mainly from indigenous groups living in inaccessible jungle regions.

The consumption of unfit drinking water is said to be one of the main causes.

"About two months ago, our children started showing symptoms," indigenous leader Diocelina Chocho was quoted as saying by the Associated Press news agency.

"The child wakes up vomiting, diarrhoea and with a little bit of a fever. Two days after, the child is completely dehydrated and that is what has been happening here," he said.

Some of the victims are also believed to be from the province's Afro-Colombian community.

Choco governor Julio Ibarguen has denied suggestions that there is an epidemic.

The situation in the province has shocked Colombians because, although poverty is widespread in Colombia, deaths through hunger and malnutrition are unusual, correspondents say.