The Ministry of Health of South Sudan reported on Wednesday that the country has raised its level of epidemiological surveillance and readiness for an Ebola outbreak following the confirmation of an imported case caused by the Bundibugyo virus in neighboring Kenya.
Although no cases have been identified within South Sudan itself, the healthcare system has been placed on high alert. This is due to increased regional movements and trade links with the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as transit routes through Kenya and Uganda.
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Duop Bichiok, stated at a press conference in the capital, Juba, that the geographical expansion of the outbreak to Kenya significantly increases the probability of cross-border transmission and underscores the urgent need to strengthen vigilance at entry points.
South Sudan has resumed its Ebola response and preparedness system. The Ministry announced that screening is being conducted at entry points, along the borders of 15 high-risk regions, and at Juba International Airport.
Furthermore, a special national task force has been established to coordinate preparedness efforts. Adder Machar Aciek, Executive Director of the National Institute of Public Health, reported the establishment of eight specialized infectious disease units for isolation and clinical treatment in case of detection.
Moses Ongom, a World Health Organization staff member in South Sudan, noted that the readiness level has risen to 65%, up from 29% in May and 45% in June. He added that infectious disease control and response capabilities have been strengthened in priority areas and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious cases immediately.
Tolbert Gevelle Nyenswah, Country Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in South Sudan, emphasized that active systems for monitoring, detection, rapid response, and laboratory testing are operational in the country. Nyenswah also mentioned that Africa CDC and WHO are coordinating a regional incident management support mechanism based in Kampala to strengthen interstate cooperation among countries affected by or bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Ministry of Health strongly urged people to remain calm but vigilant, maintain regular hand hygiene, and avoid direct contact with individuals showing Ebola-related symptoms. It was recommended to seek care at the nearest medical facility if symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained bleeding appear.