Surveillance Team Deployed in Western Equatoria State to Tackle Yellow Fever Outbreak

By Denilson Denike

The government and partners expand efforts to form monitoring teams in county health facilities.

In response to the recent proclamation of a yellow fever outbreak in three counties of Western Equatoria State, the State Ministry of Health has announced the establishment of a surveillance team to combat the spread of the disease. 

Minister James Abdullai Arona stated that the government, along with its partners, is expanding modalities to form monitoring teams in all county health facilities.

The South Sudan national ministry of health declared a yellow fever epidemic over the weekend in Gangura Payam of Yambio county, Sakure Payam of Nzara county, and Tambura county after the deaths of two individuals from the disease. 

State Minister James Abdullai informed journalists that the death toll has now risen to six, with 18 suspected cases in Yambio, Nzara, and Tambura counties.

The 18 suspects are currently being observed by health personnel while living with their families. 

The national ministry of health has dispatched a team to investigate the situation on the ground and plans to import the yellow fever vaccine this week to initiate a mass immunization campaign.

Yellow fever is a flavivirus primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes or Haemagogus mosquitoes. Symptoms can range from a fever with aches and pains to severe liver damage with bleeding and yellowing of the skin. Diagnosis of yellow fever virus infection is done through laboratory tests, symptoms, and travel history.

Minister James Abdullai emphasized the importance of swift action in combating the spread of yellow fever.

“We are taking this outbreak very seriously and we are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our citizens. The establishment of the surveillance team and the upcoming mass immunization campaign are crucial steps in containing the outbreak and preventing further spread of the disease,” He stated.

The Ministry of Health urges citizens to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed. They also encourage individuals to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with yellow fever or have recently traveled to affected areas.