Admin
By Emmanuel M. Garjiek
Following a cholera epidemic in Unity State, health authorities recorded at least three deaths and 63 illnesses.
Last month, the National Ministry of Health reported an epidemic in Upper Nile State’s Renk County.
In an interview with Radio Tamazuj on Sunday, Unity State Health Director General Dr Duol Biem confirmed the 63 cases of illness and three deaths in Rubkona and the Bentiu IDP camp hospital under MSF.
“The cases were reported from four locations of Unity State, known as Ritriak Payam, Bentiu hospital, Bentiu IDP camp and Rubkona County,” explained Dr. Duol.
He stated that the first case was reported on November 22, and that within one week, the number had increased to 63, with three deaths confirmed.
The Health Director described the signs of extremely infectious cholera, emphasizing that the majority of individuals afflicted had minor or no symptoms at all.
“About 1 in 10 people developed severe symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, and leg cramps, losing body fluids quickly, leading to dehydration,” Dr. Duol claimed.
“Fifty-three people were being treated at four locations at the Bentiu IDP camp under MSF hospital, Rubkonta and Bentiu hospitals, and the Rotriak PHUC,” he said.
The medical director revealed that 30 of the 57 patients who were in hospitals had been released.
The Unity Health Ministry has sent teams to undertake awareness campaigns and advise residents on preventive measures.
Much Tang, a Bentiu town resident, stated that cholera cases had increased on a daily basis since the first confirmed outbreak.
Tang urged the Unity State administration to raise awareness, particularly about prevention measures.
