Health authorities in Unity State have confirmed a measles outbreak in Rotriak payam of Rubkona County, resulting in two fatalities and the identification of nine new cases.
The outbreak occurred in the first week of June, according to Unity State Health Director General Dr. Duol Biem.
Dr. Biem told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that the confirmed cases and deaths occurred among returnees, with an additional 17 suspected cases still under investigation.
“Samples were sent to Juba for testing and were recently returned with positive results. Among the 26 cases, mostly children, nine have been confirmed, including two fatalities, while others remain in critical condition,” Dr Biem explained.
There is growing concern that the infectious disease may spread within the densely populated Rotriak payam in Rubkona County, as well as among those displaced by the conflict in Sudan.
Two cases have been recorded in Guit, three in Mayom, and several suspected cases have been reported in Bentiu town, he added.
To address the situation, Biem said plans are underway to transfer children with severe measles to a healthcare facility in Rotriak payam, operated by the relief organization.
He pointed out that Unity State health officials are collaborating with the World Health Organization and other humanitarian partners to launch a measles awareness campaign to provide information on measles prevention to returnees, particularly in Rotriak payam.
This measles outbreak follows a previous declaration on February 23, when measles outbreaks were reported in three counties: Torit, Maban, and Tambura, located in Eastern Equatoria, Upper Nile, and Western Equatoria states, respectively.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children and is a leading cause of death and disability among young children. While there is no specific treatment for measles, a safe and cost-effective vaccine is available to prevent the disease.