Cholera outbreak in Unity State claims one life, infects 31 others

Cholera Outbreak in Unity State

At least one person has died from a Cholera outbreak and 31 others are battling the disease in Unity State. The patients exhibited symptoms such as watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration.

Confirmation and Response

Eight samples that were drawn from patients in Rubkona and Bentiu counties tested positive for the disease at the National Public Health Laboratory in Juba. The Unity State Ministry of Health has reported a total of 31 cases, including one death, from Rubkona town and Bentiu IDP camp.

The Ministry of Health and partners deployed a rapid response team to investigate the causes and support the state-level response following the initial confirmation of the disease on April 14.

Cholera Vaccination Efforts

Earlier this year, two rounds of oral cholera vaccine were administered in 20 spots across South Sudan. However, further case mapping is being conducted to identify additional cholera cases in the affected areas.

Preventive Measures

The public is urged to remain calm and observe precautionary measures to prevent community transmission and spread in populations with inadequate access to safe drinking water. Drinking safe water, washing hands regularly, and maintaining a clean environment are essential practices to prevent cholera.

Previous Outbreak and Prevention Practices

This is the first cholera outbreak in South Sudan since 2017, with factors contributing to community deaths including poor treatment-seeking behavior and limited awareness about cholera. It is crucial to follow cholera prevention practices such as drinking safe water, washing hands, using latrines, cooking food thoroughly, and maintaining a clean environment.