The United Nations in South Sudan announced on Wednesday new measures to prevent and prepare for the new coronavirus in the country.
Last week, South Sudan’s government banned major public events and suspended direct flights to countries affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
South Sudan has no confirmed case of the coronavirus but neighbouring Sudan, Ethiopia, Congo and Kenya, have all reported confirmed COVID-19 cases.
The United Nations said in a statement that staff currently on leave in countries affected by the new coronavirus are being advised not to return except for those personnel deemed essential to UN operations.
It added, “In these cases, staff will be required to self-isolate for 14 days.”
The United Nations further said it has decided to suspend the travel of staff on rest and recuperation leave until 15 April when the situation will be reviewed.
“Activities that would have required hosting large gatherings of people are also being postponed in line with the Government’s public health advice. The United Nations’ priority is to protect the people of South Sudan and its staff who are here to serve,” the statement said.
The world body stated that it will make every effort to continue its activities to protect civilians, build peace, provide humanitarian assistance and support development.
The United Nations said the new measures are aimed at supporting government-led efforts to prevent and prepare for the coronavirus.
Globally, the virus has infected 184,976 people and killed more than 7,500, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).