Cholera Cases Surge in Central Equatoria: Health Minister Advocates for Community Vigilance
The government of Central Equatoria State is ramping up efforts to address a worrying outbreak of cholera, as Health Minister Hon. Najwa Juma Mursal briefed Governor H.E. Gen. Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani on the alarming rise in cases.
During the briefing held on Friday, Hon. Najwa revealed that the State Health Ministry has recorded 169 cholera cases, including nine fatalities, primarily in Juba County and the City Council. The Minister emphasized the urgent need for collective action and public awareness to combat the disease that has afflicted communities since its declaration by the National Ministry of Health in October 2024.
Governor Jadalla commended the Health Ministry and its partners for their dedicated efforts but underscored the necessity for increased preventative measures. “We must enhance our awareness campaigns and mobilize community support to mitigate this outbreak,” he stated, calling on residents to adopt essential hygiene practices.
Hon. Najwa stressed the importance of vigilance, particularly among vulnerable populations residing in the Protection of Civilians Sites (POCs), such as Hai Baraka, Mangateen, and Jebel Yesua. “Community engagement is crucial in controlling the spread of cholera,” she asserted, encouraging residents to report suspected cases to nearby health facilities.
“Preventive actions such as practicing good hygiene, drinking clean water, and thorough cooking of food are vital,” Hon. Najwa urged. The Minister also advised frequent handwashing with soap and water before meals as a fundamental practice to curtail the disease’s transmission.
Cholera is characterized by symptoms including watery diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, making prompt identification and response critical in preventing further loss of life and maintaining public health safety.
