Freezing temperatures have claimed the lives of 75 people in Mexico over the past three months, the Health Ministry said on Sunday.

The country is now gripped by cold front number 32, which has brought snow and frost to the center and north of the nation.

Some areas in the states of Sonora, Chihuahua, Durango and Baja California have experienced temperatures of as low as minus six centigrade.

The state of Chihuahua saw the largest number of cold-related deaths with 34. These include a number of monoxide poisoning incidents caused by leaks from heaters or stoves. The states of Sonora and Coahuila had 11 deaths each.

The ministry said it would make further efforts to spot respiratory infections as early as possible and provide treatment.

The ministry warned people to check gas heaters and avoid self-treatment of respiratory illnesses. It also recommended drinking more water and eating more food rich in vitamins A and C.

Mexico's National Meteorological Service said that Front 32 would move northeast into the United States in the next 24 hours and gradually weaken.

However, it warned that a new front would enter Mexico within two days.

(Xinhua News Agency January 29, 2007)