A medical doctor reports that pneumonia is a common infection among children admitted at the Agok Hospital in the contested territory of Abyei between the two Sudans.

Dr. Mawien Machar Ajak told Radio Tamazuj Tuesday that there was an outbreak of pneumonia in Agok administrative unit.

He attributed the problem to humidity caused by heavy rains and flooding that struck various administrative units in the area.

He emphasized the importance of improving drainage before the health conditions of children deteriorate further.

In late August, several local residents reported that the Abyei-Agok road had been cut off by heavy rains and flooding, resulting in stoppage of transports in the area.

Pneumonia is a respiratory condition in which there is an infection of the lung caused by bacteria or viruses. Anyone can be affected, but young children and the elderly are most susceptible.

File photo: A child at Agok Hospital