Yei Civil Hospital Begins Ebola Case Management Training

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Ebola preparedness efforts have been intensified in Yei River County as neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo continues to report cases, health authorities confirmed Thursday.

A preparedness pillar meeting convened by the County Health Department brought together surveillance officers, risk communication and community engagement experts and infection prevention and control teams.

County Surveillance Officer Bidal Martin presented updates showing the Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded 1,307 confirmed Ebola cases, 377 deaths and 227 recoveries. Uganda has registered 20 confirmed cases, two deaths and 15 recoveries, with three patients still receiving treatment.

Commissioner of Yei River County, Samuel Henry Malimbo, chaired the meeting. He said the county’s location near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo demands sustained alertness and closer coordination between humanitarian agencies and county health authorities:

“The county appreciates the commitment demonstrated by all partners in supporting preparedness activities,” Malimbo said.

During discussions, Musoga Robert, County Health Director, said weekly coordination meetings involving partners and county health authorities would continue to strengthen preparedness and information sharing.

He appealed for financial support to broadcast Ebola awareness radio jingles aimed at improving public understanding of prevention and encouraging early reporting of suspected cases.

Towongo Ronald, Hospital Administrator at Yei Civil Hospital, said the facility has begun training local healthcare workers on Ebola preparedness and case management with support from Médecins Sans Frontières.

He called for the delivery of water, sanitation and hygiene materials pledged by Malteser International to be placed at key screening points across the county, to reinforce infection prevention and control measures.

Health officials concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to regular coordination, stronger surveillance systems and improved community awareness. The push aims to protect Yei River County and wider South Sudan from the threat of Ebola.

A press release from the County Press Unit and Office of the County Commissioner stated the meeting forms part of ongoing work by county authorities and partners to improve early detection, rapid response and community awareness should an outbreak occur in the region.