By: Ginaba Lino
The Ministry of Health in South Sudan urges the public to be vigilant following an Ebola outbreak in Uganda. The virus, identified as Sudan Ebola, has led to fatalities, and the government has heightened preparedness to prevent its spread.
Acting Health Minister Hon. James Hoth Mai confirmed that the Nimule border and Juba International Airport health authorities have been alerted to screen travelers for Ebola.
“We have put measures in place to screen and isolate suspected cases at points of entry,” said Hon. Mai, emphasizing public cooperation to prevent the outbreak.
The Ministry also urges the public to follow hygiene guidelines, including frequent hand washing and avoiding physical contact with anyone showing Ebola symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and vomiting.
A recent Ebola case in Kampala, Uganda, resulted in the death of a patient from multi-organ failure. Contact tracing efforts have been complicated by the dense population of Kampala, a major crossroads for travel to South Sudan and neighboring countries.
The public is urged to stay calm, avoid panic, and report suspected cases to the Ministry via the toll-free number 6666.