The Minister of Health for the Abyei Special Administrative Area, Dr. Ayom Korchek Ayom, has reported that 38 people have died and 280 have been infected since the hepatitis E outbreak began in 2023.
He stressed the severity of the outbreak, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
“As of November, the cumulative cases since the outbreak began have reached 280, with 38 fatalities,” he said. “These numbers reflect the overall morbidity and mortality without separating data year by year.”
Dr. Ayom explained that the outbreak is primarily linked to contaminated water and food. He expressed concern over the lack of government action compared to responses during previous health crises, such as cholera.
“Since the declaration of the hepatitis E outbreak, not much has been done to reduce the number of cases or to stop the outbreak. Proper hygiene and sanitation remain a major challenge, especially with the lack of active partners working in this area,” the minister said.
He advised that all water sources be tested to ensure they are safe for consumption, noting that such measures could help bring the outbreak under control.
Dr. Ayom also underscored the importance of community awareness and preventive measures. While some local partners are supporting efforts, including the construction of latrines, Dr. Ayom stressed that additional public facilities are urgently needed.
“You cannot expect the community to rely solely on school or health facility latrines — it simply doesn’t work,” he stated. “More public latrines are essential to reduce the spread of the disease.”
The health minister added that during a recent meeting with the Director of Emergency at the national health ministry, Dr. Ladu, he was informed that the Emergency Department plans to send supplies to Abyei this week to support hepatitis E control efforts.
While hepatitis B and C cases have also been reported in Abyei, Dr. Ayom noted that hepatitis E has accumulated the highest number of cases due to its earlier declaration. He concluded by calling on all stakeholders to intensify hygiene campaigns, provide safe drinking water, and expand sanitation facilities to curb the ongoing outbreak.