(AWERIAL) – Health authorities in Awerial County, Lakes State, have confirmed a suspected outbreak of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) in Wunthou Boma after two people died and three others were hospitalised with symptoms linked to the disease.
A medical officer in Awerial County told local media that investigations are underway to confirm the cause of illness.
“There were five suspected cases, of which two have died. Three are still receiving treatment, two in Bor and one in Mingkaman health facility,” the official said.
The Ministry of Health is monitoring the situation closely as public health teams continue to follow up with the affected communities. No official confirmation has yet been issued pending laboratory results, but early signs suggest Rift Valley Fever, a viral disease commonly transmitted from infected animals to humans.
Rift Valley Fever is a mosquito borne virus that mostly affects livestock, such as goats, sheep and cattle. It is endemic in several regions across Africa and causes significant economic losses in pastoral and farming communities through livestock deaths and reduced production.
Transmission to humans typically happens through direct contact with the blood or organs of infected animals, especially during slaughter or butchering. Professions such as farming, herding and veterinary work are considered high-risk. The disease can also spread to humans through mosquito bites or bites from other blood sucking insects.
Most human infections result in mild symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle pain. However, in rare cases, RVF can lead to serious conditions like retinitis (inflammation of the retina), encephalitis (brain inflammation) or haemorrhagic fever. According to global health data, the fatality rate among infected individuals is usually less than 1%.
Health authorities are also urging residents in affected areas to practise safe animal handling, avoid mosquito exposure, and report any suspicious animal or human illnesses to the nearest health facilities.
The following table outlines key information about Rift Valley Fever:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| First Reported Location | Wunthou Boma, Awerial County, Lakes State |
| Suspected Human Cases | 5 (2 deaths, 3 hospitalised) |
| High Risk Groups | Farmers, herders, butchers, veterinarians |
| Animal Hosts | Goats, sheep, cattle |
| Transmission to Humans | Animal contact, mosquito bites, blood-sucking flies |
| Symptoms (Mild) | Fever, headaches, muscle pain |
| Severe Complications | Retinitis, encephalitis, haemorrhagic fever |
| Case Fatality Rate | Less than 1% |
Rift Valley Fever outbreaks are known to follow heavy rains, which create breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Although no official rainfall related warning has been issued in Lakes State, residents are advised to remain alert and observe health precautions.
South Sudan’s public health system has previously dealt with RVF outbreaks, particularly in livestock heavy regions.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and veterinary services, is expected to step up disease surveillance, vector control and awareness campaigns to reduce risks of further spread.
More updates are expected as test results and follow up reports become available.
