South Sudan Launches Cholera Vaccination Campaign in Rubkona County
A crucial cholera vaccination campaign has begun in Rubkona County, Unity State, targeting over 300,000 people. This marks a significant step in South Sudan’s efforts to control the current cholera outbreak, expanding the vaccination coverage to a fourth county nationwide.
Rubkona County: Ground Zero of Cholera Outbreak
Rubkona County stands out as one of the 31 high-risk regions struggling with a cholera outbreak, accounting for an alarming 50 percent of all reported cases. The South Sudan Ministry of Health, bolstered by support from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and other key partners, has launched this initiative to safeguard vulnerable communities from the devastating effects of the disease.
Vice President’s Visit Highlights Government Commitment
This week, a high-level delegation led by Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan for Service Cluster, H.E. Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, toured Rubkona County. His presence underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing and ending the cholera crisis. Akol praised the Ministry of Health and its partners’ dedication, stating, “We thank the Ministry of Health and the partners for their unwavering commitment to curb the cholera outbreak. The rollout of the cholera vaccine nationwide is a critical part of our efforts to save lives.”
Dignitaries Gather to Launch Vaccination Efforts
The launch ceremony was attended by key figures, including Minister of Health, Yolanda Awel Deng Juach, and the Governor of Unity State. Representatives from various UN agencies such as the Humanitarian Coordinator’s Office, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), WHO, UNICEF, and other partners also participated, adding their voices to the cause.
Minister Deng Juach’s Call to Action
Minister Deng Juach emphasized the importance of collaboration among health sector stakeholders. She encouraged timely implementation of preventive measures to contain the outbreak effectively. Deng expressed gratitude to healthcare workers for their frontline efforts, saying, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our healthcare workers, who are dedicated to caring for cholera patients and curbing the transmission. The vaccine we are introducing today is lifesaving, and I encourage everyone to get vaccinated and follow all precautionary measures to minimize the risk of cholera.”
WHO Endorses Comprehensive Health Interventions
Dr. Jetri Regmi, Technical Officer for Health Expertise and Operations at WHO, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the immense burden on South Sudan’s health system due to ongoing challenges like flooding and cholera outbreaks. She stated, “All stakeholders should remain steadfast in their efforts to manage the outbreak. The oral cholera vaccination campaigns are a protective measure for vulnerable populations and are a vital tool in our health interventions to achieve sustainable outcomes.”
Cholera Outbreak Updates
South Sudan declared a cholera outbreak in October 2024. As of January 7, 2025, the country has recorded more than 17,581 cases with a case fatality rate of 1.5%. This data underscores the urgency of interventions like the vaccination campaign.
International Support Strengthens Cholera Response
The campaign receives substantial support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, securing over 1.3 million doses of vaccines for hotspot areas nationwide. Previously, the vaccine rollout commenced in Juba on January 8, covering seven days.
Steps to Safer Communities
The Ministry of Health’s multifaceted strategy includes vaccination, along with healthcare delivery, water provision, and hygiene promotion in every affected location. These concerted efforts are vital to control and eliminate the cholera outbreak.
Conclusion
The launch of the cholera vaccination campaign in Rubkona County is a beacon of hope for South Sudanese communities amidst the ongoing crisis. With the support of key stakeholders and international partners, the country is taking proactive measures to safeguard public health.
As this critical vaccination drive unfolds, it is crucial for the community to participate, adhere to health guidelines, and support the healthcare professionals working tirelessly to combat cholera.
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