South Sudan is currently experiencing severe drought and armed conflict, and famine was declared in February 2017. Nearly 5 million people face extreme food shortages, and 50% of the South Sudanese population is in urgent need of medical care. In opposition controlled Ayod County of former Jonglei State, RMF will set up a cholera treatment center, actively find cases, and provide outreach activities to educate communities and prevent further spread of the disease.
RMF is the only NGO working in an opposition controlled area of South Sudan. 20,000 people are at high risk of contracting cholera, especially those living along the swamps of the River Nile in areas with no sanitary or health infrastructure. The magnitude of this health disaster's impact on the general population of Ayod is challenging to quantify, as the exact number of deaths related to the cholera outbreak are difficult to verify due to the nomadic nature of the populations of concern.
RMF is ready to rapidly deploy clinical reinforcements and supplies to the region to undertake a cholera response program in Pajiek Payam of Ayod County. We will provide 24/7 medical treatment, and where possible, bring clean water to communities. Community education and mobilization outreaches will assist in the identification of cases requiring treatment, while providing essential prevention messages.
Due to the current war and food insecurity, this project is an emergency response. This project will respond to the suspected cholera outbreak in Ayod County, treating patients to prevent loss of life. Community outreaches will provide critical prevention messages, resulting in healthier communities.