By Hou Akot Hou
Residents of Madhol Payam in Aweil East County, Northern Bahr El Gazal state, are living in fear after a suspected cholera outbreak claimed two lives over the weekend.
The first victim, aged 30, died on Saturday after being admitted to Madhol Field Hospital, a newly constructed health facility in the state.
Garang Bol stated that the late was initially presented with vomiting, weight loss, watery stool, and stomach problems before being transferred to the hospital.
“The illness started as a stomach problem and it caused nausea and fatigue until he was rushed to Madhol Field Hospital where he died instantly,” Bol said.
He further reported that on Sunday evening, another woman also passed away after exhibiting similar symptoms.
A nurse at Madhol Field Hospital, who requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the press, confirmed that the deceased died from suspected cholera.
The nurse cautioned the public to seek immediate medical attention if relatives at home show signs or symptoms related to cholera.
“We tell the public to avoid seeking traditional means of healing such acute infections that affect the stomach, as they give herbs instead, which complicate the issues,” the nurse stated.
Weel Village and its surrounding areas within Madhol Payam are among those recording patients with cholera-like symptoms in Northern Bahr El Gazal state.
Health officials in the area stated they are monitoring the situation and coordinating with partners before declaring a full cholera outbreak.
State health officials also attribute the situation to local residents’ reluctance to embrace free vaccination campaigns conducted in past months.
The Northern Bahr El Gazal State Ministry of Health has yet to issue an official statement regarding the suspected cholera outbreak.