Residents of the Abyei area have been urged to maintain a clean environment and drink safe water to help curb the spread of Hepatitis B.
The call from Information Minister Yohana Akol follows the death of one person from the virus three days ago.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Minister Akol confirmed an outbreak over the past two weeks, with eight people hospitalised and one fatality.
“We have registered several cases of Hepatitis B, and this situation is worrying,” he said. “The disease is spreading, and we are doing everything possible to manage the cases despite limited resources.”
He said the outbreak had caused fear in the community, exacerbated by a shortage of essential medicines.
The minister urged the public to follow health guidelines, including not sharing personal items, maintaining good hygiene, and seeking immediate medical care if symptoms appear.
“This is a community issue, and cooperation is vital,” Akol said. “When residents keep their surroundings clean and follow health advice, we can protect one another.”
He stressed that public participation was crucial as health authorities work to contain the outbreak.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The virus is most commonly transmitted from mother to child during birth, as well as through contact with blood or other body fluids.
There is no specific cure for acute Hepatitis B infection. Care focuses on rest, adequate nutrition, and fluids to help the body fight the virus. For the chronic form of the disease, antiviral drugs can help control the virus and prevent severe liver damage, but treatment is often lifelong.