Fighting cholera in South Sudan

The World Health Organisation is increasing efforts to tackle the cholera outbreak in South Sudan.

The UN health agency is trying to stop it spreading and has increased help to those most vulnerable especially children, pregnant women, elderly people and those needing special attention. Children under 10 have been most affected in Juba and Bor districts.

"Cholera is a largely preventable and treatable disease,” said Allan Mpairwe, Head of Outbreaks and Disasters Management at WHO in South Sudan.

The WHO is working with the Ministry of Health to implement a vaccination campaign in Juba district.

By 10 August 2015, 1,519 cholera cases had been reported since June when South Sudan's government declared a cholera outbreak.

WHO guidelines say an outbreak should be declared after 10 to 20 cases have been confirmed.

The number of cases has been declining since 20 July, however there is still a high threat to vulnerable groups without access to water, sanitation and hygiene.

Cholera is a bacterial infection of the small intestines that can lead to severe dehydration and death. Effective treatment can be used on 80 per cent of cases, reducing the fatality rate to less than 1 percent.

"Progress is being made in providing access to safe water and sanitation for all populations and improving access to health care service for those who are sick," said Mr Mpairwe.

The WHO has also launched health education campaigns that promote good hygiene, safe water and food preparation, while taking into account local customs and beliefs.

In coordination with Medecins sans Frontieres (MSF) Swiss, the WHO is also working with the Ministry of Health to implement a vaccination campaign in Juba district.