Cholera Outbreak in South Sudan Leads to Nearly 60 Deaths

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South Sudan is facing a severe cholera outbreak that has claimed nearly 60 lives since late October, with over 6,000 cases reported. The outbreak is predominantly affecting IDP camps and refugees, prompting a vaccination response from government and UN agencies. Limited access to clean water and sanitation heightens vulnerability among children and the elderly.

A cholera outbreak in South Sudan has resulted in nearly 60 fatalities since its emergence on October 28, as reported by Michael Makuei Lueth, the Minister of Information and Communication. The outbreak has been declared serious, with 2,184 total cases and approximately 31 reported deaths prior to recent updates.

Lueth indicated that cholera is particularly prevalent in internally displaced person (IDP) camps in Juba, Rubkona County, Aweil, and northern refugee camps. The outbreak has particularly impacted refugees fleeing from Sudan, prompting urgent health responses by government and UN agencies.

To combat the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has requested additional vaccines due to limited supplies. Current vaccinations have been administered in Renk, targeting affected populations and encouraging hygiene practices, including maintaining clean living environments and consuming warm meals.

Children under five and the elderly are especially at risk due to the high population density in transit centers and inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. The crisis is exacerbated by open defecation and poor hygiene practices, which are critical in transmitting cholera.

The initial cholera cases have been traced back to Sudan, where an outbreak has impacted over 40,000 individuals. Since April 2023, over 880,000 people have fled Sudan, with many entering South Sudan through Renk County, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in transit centers.

The cholera outbreak in South Sudan is a significant health crisis, exacerbated by poor sanitation and high population density in camps. Refugees, particularly children and the elderly, are most vulnerable. Rapid response with vaccinations and improved hygiene measures are crucial to controlling the outbreak and preventing further loss of life.

Original Source: news.az

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