Cholera Outbreak in South Sudan: Situation Critical with Nearly 60 Fatalities
A cholera outbreak in South Sudan has resulted in nearly 60 deaths and about 6,000 reported cases since October 28. The outbreak is concentrated in IDP camps and has severely affected refugees fleeing Sudan. Vaccination efforts are underway, but more supplies are needed, alongside public health advisories for cleanliness and food safety.
A cholera outbreak in South Sudan has caused nearly 60 fatalities since October 28, as reported by Michael Makuei Lueth, the Minister of Information and Communication. This outbreak coincided with an alarming rise in cases, totaling approximately 6,000, with significant distributions reported across various regions, especially in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the capital Juba and areas such as Rubkona, Aweil, and Renk.
The South Sudan government, along with UN agencies, began vaccination efforts following reports of 2,184 cholera cases and at least 31 deaths. The minister emphasized that cholera is particularly prevalent among refugees fleeing from Sudan, stressing the urgency of containing the outbreak. He noted, “Cholera is available nowadays in South Sudan. It has started again, but it is now spreading all over…”.
Lueth indicated that challenges remain in procuring sufficient vaccines; the Ministry of Health has requested additional supplies to adequately address the outbreak. As a preventive measure, he advised the public to maintain cleanliness and focus on consuming only warm food.
Public health officials have highlighted that the cholera outbreak poses significant risks to vulnerable populations, specifically young children and the elderly. The crisis is exacerbated by the high density of individuals in transit centers, where access to clean water and sanitation is severely limited, leading to increased exposure and transmission of cholera.
The initial cases of cholera were traced back to a similar outbreak in neighboring Sudan, which has impacted over 40,000 individuals. Since April 2023, over 880,000 people have crossed into South Sudan from Sudan, particularly through Renk County. Supporting efforts from the UN include services and care for new arrivals in established transit centers.
The ongoing cholera outbreak in South Sudan, resulting in nearly 60 deaths and affecting thousands, highlights the critical health crisis facing internally displaced individuals and refugees. The government is working to enhance vaccination efforts and educate the public about hygiene practices to combat further spread. Urgent measures are needed to improve sanitation and provide adequate resources for vulnerable populations.
Original Source: news.az