The government of South Sudan has dismissed concerns raised by six foreign embassies in Juba over the risk of an Ebola outbreak in the country. The embassies of Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States had warned of the risk of Ebola spreading into South Sudan. They called for increased funding for the health sector and timely payment of public health workers' salaries.
In response, the government expressed appreciation for the continued support of international partners in strengthening the country's preparedness and response to Ebola. However, it emphasized that public health concerns should be based on verified information to avoid causing unnecessary fear among the population. The government also urged the diplomatic missions to raise their concerns through established diplomatic channels and constructive engagement.
The concerns come as the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola continues to spread in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. The World Health Organisation has estimated a 99 per cent risk of the virus being imported into South Sudan. This assessment is linked to porous borders, cross-border trade, and population movements between the two countries.
Despite the reported risk, the government maintains that no Ebola case has been confirmed in South Sudan. It says it remains committed to protecting public health and strengthening national preparedness to prevent possible transmission of the virus. The government encourages diplomatic missions to pursue concerns through established channels and constructive engagement.
The government's statement noted that public statements on public health matters should be guided by verified information and avoid raising undue alarm or creating unnecessary fear among the public. This approach aims to balance the need for awareness with the risk of causing panic.
The situation in South Sudan is being closely monitored, with the government working to enhance its preparedness and response to potential Ebola cases. The country's health sector is receiving support from international partners to strengthen its capacity to detect and respond to public health threats.
The government's rejection of the Ebola outbreak concerns highlights the delicate balance between addressing public health risks and avoiding unnecessary alarm. As the situation continues to evolve, the government's commitment to protecting public health and strengthening national preparedness will be crucial in preventing the spread of the virus.
Key points
- No Ebola cases have been confirmed in South Sudan despite warnings from foreign embassies.
- The World Health Organisation estimates a 99 per cent risk of Ebola being imported into South Sudan.
- The government is committed to protecting public health and strengthening national preparedness to prevent possible transmission of the virus.
