By Manas James Okony
An outbreak of cholera has severely affected Nyirol County in Jonglei, with reported cases exceeding 1,000 since last week, leading to at least 82 confirmed deaths.
The county commissioner, James Bol Makey, reported to this publication yesterday that many infected individuals are receiving treatment under trees due to a severe lack of medical facilities.
“In just five days, more than 1,000 people have contracted cholera in Vhuil Payam, with at least 82 fatalities. We lack wards and adequate medical supplies. All patients are currently treated beneath trees,” he stated.
He has urgently called for health interventions to address the situation, noting that conditions are particularly dire in both Guer and Chuil Payam.
“We appeal to all partners to assist us. More than 1,000 are battling illness outdoors while some are admitted at the MSF Hospital in Lankien,” he said.
County Health Director Tiwtiw Kuon expressed the community’s desperation and appealed for intervention.
Cholera, an acute diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, primarily spreads through contaminated water and food, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water. If not treated swiftly, cholera can lead to severe dehydration and death within hours.
Symptoms include rice water-like diarrhoea, vomiting, and leg cramps, although some individuals may exhibit mild or no symptoms yet can still transmit the disease.
Preventive measures are critical in controlling cholera outbreaks. These include ensuring access to clean drinking water, promoting proper sanitation and hygiene practices, and providing public health education. Vaccination is recommended in high-risk regions but must be part of an extensive approach to prevention and effective response efforts.
The dire circumstances in Nyirol County highlight the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and immediate humanitarian assistance to prevent further loss of life.