Yambio infant needs surgery after baboon attack

A three-month-old baby girl in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, is in stable condition after a baboon attack severely damaged her nose. Health officials stated the infant was brought to Yambio State Hospital on Thursday morning with injuries that left only small openings for breathing. Medical staff inserted a nasogastric tube to assist feeding while the child receives treatment.

The infant requires specialized reconstructive surgery to repair her damaged nasal tissue, a procedure unavailable at the local hospital due to a lack of expertise and facilities, according to Dr. Kinawo Richard of the Western Equatoria State Ministry of Health. The baboon, which belonged to a relative, reportedly left its feeding area and entered the house before attacking the child. The Director of wildlife in the state, Joseph Dau Deng, urged residents to stop keeping dangerous wild animals in residential areas, calling it illegal.

Brigadier Justin Waiwai, Western Equatoria State Police Commissioner, condemned the incident and stated the baboon's owner will be held accountable. Deng warned that such animals pose a significant risk to children and the community. The exact circumstances of the attack remain unclear.

Why it mattersA three-month-old baby girl in Yambio requires specialized surgery after a baboon attack severely damaged her nose.

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