South Sudan’s Ministry of Health today declared formally a cholera outbreak in the national capital. Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease that is spread through eating food or drinking water contaminated with faeces.
The government and its healthcare partners are treating cholera victims at Juba Teaching Hospital and urging the public to be vigilant in helping to stop the spread of the disease.
Here are a few facts about the cholera situation in Juba today. Please also listen to the recorded public service announcement below.
Cases in treatment at Juba Teaching Hospital as of today: 60
New cases received yesterday at Juba Teaching Hospital: 16
Cumulative suspected cases so far: 171
Total deaths: 18
Date when first suspected cases were reported to health authorities: 1 June
Date of public declaration of outbreak: 23 June
Neighborhoods affected: Cases have been reported from POC3, New Site, Mangaten, Khor William, Gumbo, Gudele, Hai Referendum
Cholera cases in South Sudan’s previous outbreak last year: 6,421 cases including 167 deaths (in 2014); 16 counties in 5 states affected
Risk factors: Non-chlorinated water supply, roadside food vendors, living at a POC site, not washing hands before eating
These facts are mostly taken from remarks given by Health Minister Dr. Riek Gai and Director General of Preventive Health Dr. John Rumunu at a press conference today in Juba.