South Sudan Takes Urgent Action to Combat Cholera Outbreak

Health authorities in South Sudan have declared a cholera outbreak in Renk, confirming six cases amid ongoing humanitarian issues exacerbated by significant flooding. Efforts include activating a local cholera taskforce, training health workers, and establishing treatment units with support from the World Health Organization. The response aims to control the outbreak risk and address the health needs of refugees and local communities.

Health authorities in South Sudan have confirmed a cholera outbreak in Renk, a region on the border with Sudan, where many refugees and returnees are seeking safety amid ongoing conflict. As of October 28, 2024, there have been 50 suspected cases and six confirmed cases among local populations, prompting an urgent response from health officials. In light of the outbreak, the health authorities have activated a cholera taskforce at the county level to ensure coordinated efforts in managing the situation, while the national incident management system is also involved. To strengthen disease monitoring, officials are training health workers on cholera case identification and implementing active case finding alongside contact tracing initiatives. Moreover, a cohort of thirty health workers has been educated on how to report, test, and collect samples for suspected cholera cases. Yolanda Awel Deng, the Minister of Health, acknowledged the challenges faced by refugees and returnees, particularly concerning overcrowding and substandard sanitation, which contribute to the spread of cholera. She emphasized the collaboration between the Ministry of Health and partners in health, nutrition, and water sanitation to mitigate the outbreak risks. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing severe flooding in the region, which has displaced approximately 46,500 individuals and affected over 81,300 people in Upper Nile State, increasing vulnerability to infectious diseases such as cholera. The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely involved in this effort, having assisted in establishing cholera treatment units at local hospitals. At the Renk Civil Hospital, a ten-bed unit has been set up, complemented by a four-bed unit at the Wunthou point of entry. Current recovery rates indicate an 80% success for hospitalized patients, and significant improvement has been observed among those affected. Additionally, the WHO has dispatched two rapid response teams comprised of epidemiologists, sanitation experts, and laboratory personnel to bolster local health systems. On October 25, WHO delivered twelve metric tons of emergency health kits to Renk, which are capable of treating around 74,000 individuals, including designated cholera treatment supplies. Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, the WHO Representative in South Sudan, praised the government’s proactive stance in addressing the outbreak, affirming WHO’s commitment to bolster disease surveillance, enhance response coordination, and ensure adequate medical supplies are provided.

The cholera outbreak in South Sudan comes at a time of significant humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflict and natural disasters affecting the region. Renk, situated on the border with Sudan, has become a critical entry point for refugees fleeing violence. The health authorities are grappling with the compounded challenges of poor sanitation and overcrowding in camps where vulnerable populations reside, which are conducive to the rapid spread of infectious diseases such as cholera. Comprehensive emergency responses are sought to mitigate these health risks and protect public health.

In conclusion, South Sudan is facing a serious cholera outbreak in Renk, exacerbated by the influx of refugees and prevailing humanitarian challenges. Health authorities are taking significant steps, including the activation of a cholera taskforce and training of health workers, to manage this crisis. The involvement of the World Health Organization reinforces these efforts, providing essential resources and support to improve medical responses and ensure the health and safety of affected populations. Continued cooperation between the government and international partners is vital for effective outbreak control and long-term improvements in public health.

Original Source: www.afro.who.int