15 die as cholera infections rise to 800 in Unity State

MSF staff provide vital care inside the Cholera Treatment Unit at Renk Hospital, treating patients affected by the cholera outbreak. So far, 45 patients have been treated. © Hussein /MSF

December 12, 2024 Unity State

At least 15 people have died out of the 800 cholera infection 800 cases reported by health authorities in Unity State on Wednesday.

The authorities said that four State health facilities in Bentiu Town, Rubkonta Hospital, Riohriak Payam and Bentiu IDP camp, under the MSF management, had in the past two weeks recorded 63 cases and three deaths.

The Acting State Ministry of Health Director General, Bany Makon, speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday, confirmed that 15 people had died, with the infection figures rising to 800.

Five hundred out of the 800 people infected had reportedly recovered and had been discharged from hospitals in Bentiu town, Rubkonta hospital, and Riohriak Payam PHCC and Bentiu IDP camp.

Meanwhile, 200 cases remained active under treatment in the four locations.

Makon said that six counties had not recorded any infection since the outbreak.

Rubkonta County Director Jal Kuol confirmed the rise in the number of infections and deaths.

He said the deaths occurring at home had not been recorded.

Bentiu Town resident Michael Tut said the outbreak had affected the community since November 22 when the first case was reported in Rubkonta County.

He said the community was appealing to the State and the National ministries of health and the partners to supply enough drugs to combat the epidemic.