Cholera in South Sudan: An Analysis of Current and Future Challenges

Cholera is endemic in South Sudan with a recent outbreak surpassing 22,000 cases. Atypical characteristics of this outbreak include its timing and a new serotype of V. cholerae. Despite stabilization in some areas, increasing cases in remote counties signal ongoing transmission. Proactive response and long-term WASH investment are crucial to address and prevent future outbreaks.

Cholera remains an endemic public health concern in South Sudan, with recurrent outbreaks primarily fueled by factors such as flooding, political instability, limited healthcare access, and inadequate sanitation services. The latest outbreak, declared on October 28, 2024, has already surpassed 22,000 reported cases. This outbreak is notable for its atypical timing, occurring post-rainy season, and featuring a new V. cholerae serotype not previously seen in the country. The transmission drivers include ongoing population displacements, overcrowded living conditions, and deteriorating water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, worsened by severe flooding and socio-economic challenges.

By mid-January, case numbers showed signs of stabilization in certain hotspots like Rubkona and Juba; however, alarming increases in cases and fatalities in remote counties such as Mayom, Guit, and Fangak highlight the outbreak’s continued threat. The recent cholera outbreak declared in Sudan in August 2024, combined with conflict-induced cross-border movements, has increased the likelihood of emergence in South Sudan. The existing WASH infrastructure, severely compromised by displacement and recent floods, escalates the risk of a potential widespread outbreak.

To effectively manage the current cholera crisis, it is essential to proactively scale up response measures in newly affected regions, including the deployment of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV). Moreover, sustained long-term strategies aimed at thwarting future outbreaks require substantial investment in WASH infrastructure and the establishment of a proactive readiness framework to handle high-risk scenarios of cholera spillover into South Sudan.

In conclusion, cholera remains a significant public health concern in South Sudan, exacerbated by various socio-environmental factors. The current outbreak underscores the urgent need for enhanced response measures and the necessity for long-term investments in WASH infrastructure. Proactive approaches are critical to mitigating future outbreaks and ensuring the health and safety of the population.

Original Source: reliefweb.int