Meningitis on the rise in Warrap State

KUAJOK – Health authorities in Twic County, Warrap State, are expressing concern about a rise in meningitis cases, which have reportedly caused deaths among both adults and children.

The surveillance officer at Mayen Abun hospital told Sudans Post on Wednesday that approximately 10 people have died from the disease since the beginning of the year.

“The cases of meningitis are so prevalent, and we are urging the concerned partners to help us in containing the rise of the disease,” said Mr. Akol Akol, the surveillance officer.

“We are so worried as one person just passed on last week while he was admitted at Mayen-Abun health facility, and what we are calling for is an intervention so that people can be saved from the ailment.”

Akol acknowledged the severity of the disease and attributed the deaths to hot weather, which he considers a contributing factor.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include neck stiffness, fever, chills, vomiting, and sensitivity to light (photophobia). While treatable, it is often fatal if not addressed promptly.

Vaccination is the primary preventative measure, and outbreaks are more common during hot seasons, such as January through May in South Sudan.