South Sudanese health authorities have declared a cholera outbreak in Renk, a county on the northern border with Sudan, which has become a critical entry point for refugees and returnees escaping ongoing armed conflict. As of October 28, 2024, the area has reported 50 suspected cholera cases, including six confirmed cases affecting refugees, returnees, and the local host community.
To combat the outbreak, health officials have activated the county’s cholera taskforce and mobilized the national incident management system for coordinated response efforts. Surveillance measures have been reinforced, with local health facilities guided on case definitions and boma health workers deployed for active case finding and contact tracing. Additionally, 30 health workers have received training in identifying and testing cholera cases, along with proper sample collection protocols.
“The Ministry of Health understands the challenges faced by refugees and returnees, including overcrowding and limited water and sanitation, which create conditions ripe for outbreaks,” stated Yolanda Awel Deng, South Sudan’s Minister of Health. “We’re partnering with health, nutrition, and water sanitation and hygiene clusters to minimize the outbreak’s spread.”
Adding to the challenge, unprecedented flooding has swept through Upper Nile State, where Renk is located, affecting more than 81,300 people and displacing approximately 46,500. These conditions further heighten the vulnerability to diseases like cholera.
In collaboration with the South Sudanese government, the World Health Organization (WHO) has provided crucial support by establishing cholera treatment units with a 10-bed facility at Renk Civil Hospital and a four-bed unit at Wunthou point of entry. The recovery rate among patients is currently 80%, with hospitalized cases showing encouraging improvement. Additionally, WHO has deployed two rapid response teams with expertise in epidemiology, sanitation, infection control, risk communication, and laboratory work, and has planned further deployments to strengthen the response.
On October 25, WHO delivered 12 metric tons of medical supplies to Renk, including cholera treatment kits for severe and moderate cases, cholera beds, logistics modules, and tents. These resources are expected to treat around 74,000 people and provide critical support for the ongoing containment efforts.
“I commend the South Sudanese government for its rapid response in such a challenging setting,” said Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative in South Sudan. “WHO is committed to supporting enhanced surveillance, coordination, and medical supply availability to protect affected communities.”
