Eastern Equatoria Health minister introduced a cash reward system aimed at encouraging people with Guinea worm disease to report to health facilities to stop the spread of the disease.
Margret Itto said a patient who reported to any health facility his or her guinea worm while still swelling gets 500 South Sudanese Pounds while a person who report after swelling of the worm gets 250 Pounds, Emmanuel Radio reported.
She added that the person who reported any suspected guinea worm case gets 100 South Sudanese Pounds cash reward.
Dr Itto explained that they introduced the cash reward to involve the community in the fight against guinea worm.
The minister appreciated partners including World Health organization WHO, UNICEF, Carter Centre and Rotary Club for providing safe water and mobilizing communities.
The minister said early reporting of guinea worm cases helps to prevent the disease.
Dr Itto revealed that eight cases of guinea worm were reported in Kapoeta East County this year and reporters received their cash rewards.
She added that partners also provided medical care and food to guinea worm patients.