Cholera in South Sudan: An Ongoing Health Crisis and Future Directions

Cholera is endemic in South Sudan with over 22,000 cases reported in the latest outbreak, which began on October 28, 2024. Factors like flooding, political instability, and poor sanitation have driven the spread. While some areas show stabilization, the outbreak continues in remote counties. Urgent action is needed for vaccination and sustainable infrastructure investments to mitigate future risks.

Cholera remains a significant health challenge in South Sudan, characterized by persistent outbreaks exacerbated by factors such as recurrent flooding, political instability, inadequate healthcare, and insufficient water and sanitation services. The most recent outbreak, announced on October 28, 2024, has already resulted in over 22,000 reported cases. Uniquely, this outbreak surfaced at the conclusion of the rainy season, diverging from the anticipated timing of onset, and involves a novel V. cholerae serotype not previously recorded in the nation.

The outbreak’s transmission is largely driven by multiple introductions of the bacteria, significant population movements, overcrowding, and detrimental WASH conditions intensified by flooding and economic hardships. Despite stabilization observed in certain hotspots like Rubkona and Juba by mid-January, there is an alarming rise in cases and fatalities in remote counties including Mayom, Guit, and Fangak, indicating that the outbreak persists and continues to spread. Furthermore, the cholera situation in neighboring Sudan, alongside ongoing conflict, poses a heightened risk for additional cases in South Sudan.

To combat cholera effectively, it is crucial to rapidly enhance response measures, particularly in newly affected areas through the administration of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV). Additionally, to avert future outbreaks, it is essential to make sustainable investments in development, particularly in improving WASH infrastructure and maintaining vigilant readiness to prevent cholera spillover during high-risk periods.

Cholera in South Sudan is fueled by various compounding factors, leading to a severe and ongoing outbreak. The necessity for immediate action, including vaccination and infrastructural investment in WASH, is paramount to curbing the current outbreak and preventing future incidents. A proactive approach will be critical as the socioeconomic and environmental risks continue to pose threats in the region.

Original Source: reliefweb.int