By Emmanuel Mandella
Health authorities in Western Equatoria State are racing against time to tackle the outbreak of measles after 24 suspected cases were recorded in Yambio since early March.
Speaking to the media in Yambio, James Abdullahi, the State Minister of Health, confirmed the suspected cases and said preparations are underway to undertake vaccination drive across the state to contain the disease.
“We have recorded suspected measles cases. Fortunately, our health team under the leadership of the EPI director recently attended a workshop in Juba. We are now planning a mass vaccination campaign across 11 states,” said Arona.
“Our teams are working tirelessly to enhance public health and sanitation. Between now and April 27, we expect a busy period,” he added.
According to the authority in the state, there is no official cholera cases that has been confirmed, the recent spike in measles cases has left many parents worried.
Speaking to The City Review, Mr. Jacob Joseph a clinical officer of Yambio State Hospital, said all 24 suspected measles patients were treated successfully, with just one case still under observation.
“The good news is that we’ve managed the cases well so far. The remaining patient is stable and under close monitoring,” said Mr. Jacob.
Parents in the community, however, are not taking the situation lightly.
“My daughter developed a rash and high fever. We rushed her to the hospital. It was terrifying. We thank the doctors for acting fast, but we need more awareness and quick vaccination for all children,” said Maria Francis, a mother of a 3-year-old who was among the suspected cases.
Others in the community without affected children are equally concerned.
“Even though my children haven’t shown symptoms, I am deeply worried. The schools are still open, and we don’t know how safe they are. We need vaccines fast,” said Amos Tunga, a father of four in Hai Naduru Residential area in Yambio.
Health experts say early vaccination is the best line of defense against measles. Meanwhile, partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF among other NGOs are urged to step in with support to help before it gets into the waste.
“This is a moment where coordination is key,” said Sarah Namsio, a local health worker. “We need logistics, vaccines, and more hands on the ground. The state government can’t do it alone.”
Health officials and humanitarian agencies are calling on international and national health partners to support vaccine procurement and distribution, enhance community awareness and health education, provide logistical and technical assistance during the campaign and strengthen surveillance systems to detect and respond swiftly to future outbreaks
As Yambio County prepares for a sweeping vaccination campaign, hope is pegged on the health authorities and their partners to act quickly and prevent a localized scare from becoming a wider outbreak.