In a proactive measure to combat the cholera outbreak across Unity State, the national health ministry officially launched a vaccination campaign in Bentiu on Tuesday.
Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi Akol who is in charge of the service cluster and National Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng flew to Bentiu to launch the campaign.
The vice president revealed that Unity State has so far reported 9,000 cholera cases with 180 deaths in Bentiu alone. He highlighted that these figures represent 51 percent of the national cholera death toll. He stressed the importance of drinking clean water, sanitation improvements, and overall healthcare service enhancement among other precautions.
“Our collaborative efforts with organizations like WHO, UNICEF, and MSF are essential in deploying rapid response teams, setting up cholera treatment centers, and promoting crucial hygiene practices. Let us rally together,” he Akol said. “Also, do not rely on dangerous homemade remedies.”
He called for increased funding and support for sustainable, community-led solutions.
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to not only tackling this outbreak but also building a stronger, more resilient health system for our future,” the vice president added.
For her part, National Health Minister Awel urged communities to use safe water and embrace sanitation practices. She also recognized the “phenomenal dedication of healthcare workers on the frontlines in this fight against cholera outbreak.”
The Minister emphasized the urgent need for more healthcare resources and collaborative partnerships.
The vaccination campaign will last five days in the four locations of Rubkona, Bentiu Town, Bentiu IDP Camp, and Riohriak Payam.
Unity State Governor Justice Riek Bilm Top thanked the health ministry and health partners for intervening and said the disease has devastated that state.