31 Dec 2024 | 08:50 AM UTC
South Sudan: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas, especially Rubkona County, through December /update 1
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas, especially Rubkona, in South Sudan through December. Use food and water precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated cholera activity in 28 counties across seven states in South Sudan, with a total of 9,102 suspected cases reported Oct. 23-Dec. 22. This is compared to the 1,471 cases reported in 2023. Rubkona County (4,972 cases) is the most affected, followed by Juba County (1,547 cases), Malakal County, Renk County, and Aweil West County. The disease is spreading rapidly across the country due to floods and poor sanitation, primarily affecting refugees and internally displaced persons. Health officials are implementing a multi-sectoral response to the cholera outbreak, combining vaccination campaigns with efforts to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene. Rapid response teams have been trained and deployed, medical and cholera supplies have been distributed, and community engagement efforts, such as radio broadcasts and household visits, are underway. This report represents the most up-to-date information as of Dec. 31.
Consult a travel medicine provider before departure regarding cholera vaccination. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in affected areas.
The risk of cholera transmission is high due to limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare, especially during the rainy season and subsequent floods. Fragile infrastructure and ongoing humanitarian crises worsen the situation. Health officials reported 1,471 cholera cases in South Sudan in 2023, 424 cases in 2022, and no confirmed cases in 2021 and 2020.
Cholera is transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild diarrhea. However, approximately one in 10 infected people develop severe cholera, which causes symptoms including profuse, watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, restlessness, or irritability. Symptoms typically appear 2-3 days after exposure but can develop up to five days after exposure. Individuals with severe cholera can develop acute renal failure, severe electrolyte imbalances, and coma. If left untreated, these can lead to shock and rapid death.
