Over 20 new cholera relapse cases, three deaths reported in Duk County

JUBA – Health authorities in Duk County, Jonglei State, have confirmed a relapse of cholera cases, reporting 22 new infections and three deaths, and urging residents to strictly follow preventive measures to curb further spread.

According to the County Health Director, Majok Dau, most of the new cases are originating from the island areas, where poor hygiene practices continue to put residents at high risk.

“What we have now is a relapse. We received 10 cases from the island on Tuesday, with three deaths, and 12 others are from the dryland areas. We are currently treating them, and some of the patients are recovering,” Dau said.

He noted that poor sanitation and cross-border movement from neighbouring counties continue to fuel the infections.

“Most of these cases are linked to very poor hygienic conditions, and some infections are coming from neighbouring counties like Ayod and Uror. But the largest number we receive daily comes from the island,” he added.

Dau said health personnel, including members of the Boma Health Initiative (BHI), are conducting daily awareness campaigns to encourage residents to adopt preventive behaviours, though compliance remains low.

“We have BHI workers who were recruited, and they are present in every county, even on the islands, educating people on the dangers of cholera and how to prevent it. But people are not complying, which makes the work difficult,” Dau explained.

The county is expecting a consignment of cholera treatment supplies in the coming days, offering hope for improved case management.

“There are cholera drugs expected to arrive on Monday or Tuesday next week. They will be taken to the island areas, and if they arrive safely, we believe they will help in containing the situation. The supplies include chlorine, which will be used for treating drinking water,” he said.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It spreads primarily through contaminated water and food, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

Symptoms include severe watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration, which can lead to death within hours if untreated. However, cholera is easily preventable through proper hygiene, safe drinking water, sanitation, and early treatment.

Since the outbreak in Duk County began, authorities have recorded 844 cumulative cases, with 823 recoveries and 21 deaths.

Health officials continue to urge residents to practice hand washing, drink only treated or boiled water, maintain sanitation around homes, and seek immediate medical attention when symptoms appear.