An outbreak of Hepatitis E in Maban County, Upper Nile State, has killed 14 refugees and infected over 300 since May.
Undersecretary in the National Ministry of Health Makur Matur Kariom told the press in Juba on Thursday that four refugee camps in Maban County which borders Blue Nile State were hit by a Hepatitis E outbreak.He explained that Hepatitis E, commonly known as jaundice, is a viral disease that affects the human liver, and spreads through poor hygiene.
Dr Matur said the outbreak is still confined to the camps.
He added that the first cases were reported in May: over 300 contracted the virus and 14 died.
Dr Matur explained that the results were confirmed through analyses done in Kenya.
The Health Ministry is appealing to all partners to put in place preventive and control measures before the disease spreads to other camps and surrounding communities.