Health Minister Ochon John has said that Greater Pibor Administrative Area will receive 260,000 cholera vaccine doses in response to the ongoing outbreak.
Speaking to Nile Witness, Minister Ochon confirmed that the National Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), is expediting the vaccine delivery.
“There are plans to bring 260,000 vaccines to Greater Pibor through the National Ministry of Health. The process is underway, and once the vaccines arrive, a mass vaccination campaign will begin immediately,” He stated.
The minister highlighted ongoing medical support from the National Ministry of Health and various NGOs, noting that 911 cholera patients have already recovered and are awaiting vaccination.
Ochon acknowledged the government and humanitarian organizations for their assistance in managing the outbreak.
“Last week, the Undersecretary of the National Ministry of Health, along with the Director General for Preventive Health Service, visited Pibor with essential supplies, including medical equipment, beds, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) materials,” He said.
As Pibor awaits the vaccine shipment, Ochon urged residents to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation practices to prevent further spread of the disease.
He also called on the National Ministry of Health to expedite vaccine distribution to curb the cholera outbreak effectively.
According to Minister John, health facilities in Greater Pibor have recorded 1,603 cases, resulting in 106 fatalities. Additionally, 91 deaths have been reported from areas without access to treatment, bringing the total fatalities to 197.