Area Minister of Health described the outbreak as “a critical public health challenge faced by the area,” underscoring the gravity of the situation.

By Aguok Chok

Abyei Special Administrative Area – The Ministry of Health has officially declared a cholera outbreak in Abyei Administrative Area, marking a significant public health emergency in the region.

The announcement was made during a press conference held earlier on Wednesday by the area’s Acting Minister of Health, Hon. Kon Manyiet Matiok, who also serves as minister for Physical Infrastructure, Public Utilities, and Communication. The minister described the outbreak as “a critical public health challenge faced by the area,” underscoring the gravity of the situation.

According to the Ministry of Health, a total of 37 suspected cholera cases have been recorded so far. Out of three samples sent to the National Public Health Laboratory for testing, two have been confirmed positive while one tested negative. Tragically, two female individuals in the vicinity of Amiet Market have lost their lives due to the illness.

In response to the crisis, Hon. Matiok appealed for immediate support and cooperation from all stakeholders and health partners. The Ministry is calling for the establishment of effective response interventions which include case management, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) activities, community mobilization, and the provision of critical medical supplies.

“We urge everyone in the Abyei area to prioritize their health and cooperate with health authorities during this critical time,” the minister said, urging for a unified approach to contain the disease and prevent further loss of lives.

The Ministry of Health has issued clear public health directives to the people living in the area. These include consumption of treated or boiled water, maintaining strict hand hygiene, avoiding open defecation, and seeking medical attention immediately when symptoms of acute watery diarrhea appear.

The situation in Abyei is further complicated by limited infrastructure and the region’s vulnerability to health crises due to ongoing challenges in public services and humanitarian support. This makes the role of health partners, local organizations, and community leaders even more crucial in helping to contain the spread of the disease.

Authorities are working with urgency to assess and activate cholera treatment centers, deploy health workers, and improve access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to educate communities about cholera prevention and the importance of early treatment.

While the current outbreak poses serious risks, swift coordination between government agencies, humanitarian partners, and residents could significantly reduce its impact. The Ministry of Health emphasized the need for everyone to play a role in stopping the spread of cholera.

The press unit of the Abyei Special Administrative Area reaffirmed that continuous updates will be provided as more information becomes available and response efforts are scaled up.

“Everyone in the Abyei area should prioritize their health,” Hon. Matiok advised.