A cholera outbreak hit Jonglei State’s Nyirol County last week with at least 1,000 cases registered and 82 deaths reported.
James Bol Makey, the county commissioner, told Radio Tamazuj that those infected were being treated under trees.
“In a space of five days, over 1,000 people contracted cholera in Vhuil Payam, with at least 82 deaths,” he said. “There are no wards and all patients are now being treated under trees amidst lack of drugs.”
For his part, County Health Director Tiwtiw Kuon appealed for urgent intervention.
“Our situation is dire in Guer and Chuil payams. We appeal to all partners to come to our aid,” he stated. “More than 1,000 people are now sick under trees while others are admitted at the MSF Hospital in Lankien.”
Meanwhile, one Langkien resident who identified himself as Gatluak David Yiik said the outbreak was killing many people.
“We are suffering, our people are dying without intervention and we appeal for rescue,” he said.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestines with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
It is primarily spread through contaminated water and food, especially in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate access to clean drinking water. Cholera can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours if left untreated.
The symptoms typically include rice-water-like diarrhea, vomiting, and leg cramps. In many cases, those infected may show mild or no symptoms but can still spread the disease.
Preventive measures are crucial in controlling cholera outbreaks and include ensuring access to clean drinking water, promoting proper sanitation and hygiene practices, and providing public health education. Vaccination is also recommended in high-risk areas, but it is just one part of a comprehensive approach to prevention and response.