South Sudan Ebola preparedness exercise reveals gaps
A simulation exercise in Juba, Yei, and Yambio identified shortcomings in emergency referrals and sample handling.
South Sudan's readiness for a potential Ebola virus disease outbreak shows operational gaps in emergency referrals, sample handling, safe burials, and essential supplies. These issues were revealed by a national simulation exercise conducted from October 19 to 24 in Juba, Yei, and Yambio. Over 100 participants from government, UN agencies, and health partners tested the country's ability to detect, contain, and respond to an outbreak across 10 sites.
Dr. Moses Ongom, WHO Representative (OIC) for South Sudan, stated that while much has been done, more is needed to close remaining gaps in outbreak management. The exercise assessed early detection, notification, case management, laboratory operations, and coordination. The findings highlight the need to strengthen coordination and operational capacity before a potential outbreak. South Sudan's national readiness level stands at 72.5 percent across 11 preparedness pillars, according to Dr. Ader Macar Aciek, Executive Director of NPHI.
Between October 22 and 27, nine new Ebola virus disease alerts were reported nationwide, bringing the cumulative total to 81. Of these, 32 tested negative, 47 were discarded, and two cases in Morobo awaited results. WHO reported over 5.4 million screenings at points of entry since May 2026, with 196,713 screenings conducted between October 22 and 28 at specific locations.
Why it mattersSouth Sudanese citizens face potential risks from an Ebola outbreak due to identified gaps in the country's emergency response capacity.