WHO Updates: South Sudan’s Health Crisis Amidst Cholera and Polio Outbreaks Kampala, Uganda – South Sudan is addressing a dual health emergency, as outbreaks of cholera and polio continue to strain the country’s already compromised healthcare system.
As of 27 July 2026, the country has reported 210 new cholera cases, with no fatalities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has been instrumental in providing support, including emergency medical supplies and enhancing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
In a separate development, two new polio isolates were detected, one in Nasir and another in Tonj South. This situation requires immediate attention, including the intensification of the polio vaccine program and the strengthening of routine immunization efforts in affected areas.
The WHO also notes that South Sudan’s national-level readiness for emergencies is at 65%, but subnational readiness is significantly lower and requires additional support. This includes operationalizing capacities beyond the capital, Juba.
Additionally, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reported 3,200 cases of Ebola and 1,405 deaths, with Uganda declaring the end of its 2026 Ebola outbreak on 28 July. This leaves DRC as the only country with active regional transmission of the virus.
The WHO is calling for priority actions, including sustaining the ongoing Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) mop-up efforts in Mayom, Leer, and Rubkona, restoring routine immunization in Akobo, Nyirol, and Uror, and conducting assessments in Walgak and Waat.
The health emergencies underscore the critical need for coordinated efforts and robust public health responses to manage concurrent outbreaks of infectious diseases in South Sudan.
The WHO and Africa CDC continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and support where needed.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: World Health Organization
