South Sudan’s government declares cholera outbreak
South Sudan’s Ministry of Health has declared Cholera outbreak in Rubkona county, Unity State following confirmation of cholera in eight cases
“To date, a total of 31 cases including one death have been reported from Rubkona town and Bentiu IDP camp.” Reads part of a statement issued by Dr. John Pasquale Rumunu Karlino, Director General, Directorate of Preventive Health Services,
Ministry of Health, Republic of South Sudan on Saturday evening and seen by Juba Echo.
The ministry says it has activated a national and a state cholera taskforce on 14 April 2022 to coordinate all response interventions, heighten surveillance in the Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps and at community levels.
The cholera risk is typically high during the rainy season that starts from May to the end of October.
For the last couple of years, the country and Unity State in particular has experienced devastating floods, displacing residents from their homes, destroying livelihoods, and social services.
The government says it’s working to address the outbreak.
“The Public is further urged to be vigilant and report all suspected cholera cases to the national
outbreak hotline 6666 or the nearest health facility, County Health Department, and/or State
Ministry of Health.” The statement from the health ministry continued.
Cholera is caused by consuming contaminated food or water.
The Ministry of Health says it will continue to work with partners to ensure preparedness and response
efforts are fully implemented and the people of South Sudan are protected from cholera and is
the public to continue observing the following measures to prevent cholera and other diarrhea diseases:
- Drink and use water that has been made safe after treating with chlorine or if boiling, bring
your water to a complete boil for at least 1 minute. - Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the latrine, before handling and
eating food. - Use latrines or bury your feces and do not defecate in any water body.
- Cook food well, keep it covered, eat it hot, and peel fruits and vegetables. Always wash fruits
and vegetables thoroughly with clean water before eating them. - Keep a clean environment at home and in public places and dispose of liquid and solid
waste safely
