Conjunctivitis cases rise northern Bahr el Ghazal’s capital

JUBA – A rise in conjunctivitis, also known as red eye disease, has been reported in Aweil town, the capital of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, with residents seeking medical attention at local hospitals.

Health officials confirmed an increase in patients with symptoms of the eye infection.

“We have received numerous cases of people coming to the hospital for treatment,” Luka Lual Aleu Jok, health education focal point at Aweil Hospital, told Sudans Post this morning.

Jok emphasized the importance of handwashing with soap as a key preventive measure against contagious disease.

“Wash your hands thoroughly with soap after contact with a red-eye patient,” he advised. “Basic hygiene practices, especially sanitization, are crucial.”

Jok acknowledged the limited access to sanitizers for some residents but highlighted the availability of soap as a readily accessible alternative.

“Even if you can’t afford sanitizer, washing your face and hands with soap after contact with a patient is essential,” he said.

Jok urged caution due to the disease’s contagious nature.

Reports of conjunctivitis outbreaks have emerged from other parts of South Sudan, including regions like Equatoria and Warrap.

Health professionals attribute the spread to poor hygiene practices and advise the public to prioritize personal and public hygiene measures to contain the outbreak.