By Hou Akot Hou
A team of health practitioners from Juba arrived in Aweil Town, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, on Monday to investigate a surge in meningitis cases.
This follows reports of eight deaths from a similar illness in Majok-Yithiou, a town bordering the Republic of Sudan.
“We’ve alerted the national health ministry about the severity and ongoing nature of the disease,” said Luka Lual Aleu Jok, the hospital’s focal point.
He told journalists that “Despite medical efforts to control the situation, the disease persists.”
Mr. Jok emphasized the seriousness of meningitis, particularly during the dry season with heat waves.
He warned that meningitis stiffness can cause permanent sensory damage if vaccination is delayed.
“We urge women, children, and adults to get vaccinated upon experiencing symptoms,” Mr. Jok said. “That’s why it’s crucial for our community to comply with health precautions.”
The visiting team, as Mr. Jok explained, will meet with health sector partners to develop plans to halt the outbreak.
He further revealed that samples sent to Juba tested positive for meningitis, and a decision on a mass immunization campaign is pending.
Meningitis is a serious illness characterized by inflammation of the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and neck stiffness. Early detection and vaccination are crucial for prevention.