LUSAKA, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government on Tuesday expressed concern over the outbreak of cholera in neighboring Zimbabwe, saying the outbreak could spill over.

Cholera has broken out in Zimbabwe and has so far claimed about 30 lives while thousands of cases have been recorded.

Minister of Local Government and Housing Vincent Mwale said the cholera outbreak in the neighboring country was a source of concern because of the shared border.

He has since called for concerted efforts to keep the surroundings clean. He further said a ministerial committee on epidemic outbreaks will meet this week.

"It is about cleanliness and how we take care of our environment. It is possible that we can have cholera. Things that need to be done are very clear to us," he said.

The Zambian minister however said there is currently no cholera outbreak in the country.