Health Officials Dismiss Ebola Rumor in Yei Town

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) — Health authorities in Yei River County have dismissed rumors circulating on social media alleging a suspected Ebola case in Yei town, confirming that no infection has been detected.

The speculation arose after reports of an individual vomiting blood and being rushed to Yei Civil Hospital, sparking concern among residents.

Speaking to local media on Sunday evening, the County Health Director, Simon Sebit Musoga, clarified that thorough medical investigations and laboratory tests found no evidence of Ebola or any related infectious disease.

According to the health director, the patient is a soldier attached to the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) under the Tiger Division in Yei New Site. The soldier reportedly disclosed a history of ulcers and said he had recently spent time in detention before developing complications that led to severe bleeding.

“People saw someone vomiting blood and immediately suspected Ebola,” Musoga explained. “However, all laboratory tests returned negative results. Medical examinations confirmed that the patient was suffering from severe stomach ulcers.”

Musoga emphasised that South Sudan has not recorded any Ebola outbreak, although cases have been reported in neighbouring countries such as Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, warning that rumours can create unnecessary panic within communities.

“We encourage residents to report suspected health emergencies to medical personnel for proper assessment before drawing conclusions,” he added.

Yei Civil Hospital Administrator Towongo Ronald also confirmed that the patient was promptly attended to upon arrival.

“The patient vomited a significant amount of blood, which understandably alarmed many people,” Ronald said. “However, after conducting medical examinations, we confirmed that he was suffering from severe ulcers. His body temperature was normal, and there were no signs indicating Ebola infection.”

Ronald advised residents to continue observing public health measures recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and national health authorities, while remaining calm and relying on verified information.

The patient, identified as Santino Bol Deng, also spoke out, dismissing claims that he had contracted Ebola.

“I have been suffering from ulcers since last year and have received treatment,” Deng said. “After a disagreement with fellow soldiers, I spent the night in detention. The following morning, I started vomiting blood and was taken to the hospital.”

He added that medical examinations revealed severe ulcer wounds responsible for the bleeding.

The incident drew large crowds and prompted visits by government officials to Yei Civil Hospital on Friday to verify the situation.

Health authorities have reiterated that there is currently no confirmed Ebola case in Yei River County or anywhere in South Sudan, calling on the public to rely on official health information to prevent the spread of misinformation.