UN Warns of Rising Malaria Risk Amid Flooding in South Sudan

The United Nations has cautioned about a potential rise in malaria cases in South Sudan due to severe flooding affecting 1.4 million people. The country has initiated a vaccination program for malaria, distributing the new R21/Matrix-M vaccine and emphasizing the use of treated mosquito nets for prevention amid significant challenges.

The United Nations has raised an alarm regarding an impending increase in malaria cases in South Sudan, attributing this threat to significant flooding that has impacted approximately 1.4 million individuals, displacing over 379,000 and exacerbating food insecurity. This region, characterized as particularly vulnerable to climate change, is experiencing its most severe flooding in decades, predominantly affecting the northern areas. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that 43 counties have been affected by flooding, including the contested Abyei region, claimed by both South Sudan and Sudan. Consequently, the national healthcare system is under severe strain due to the rising number of malaria infections in flood-impacted areas. Earlier this year, South Sudan and Côte d’Ivoire commenced the administration of the new R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine to children at high risk, marking a pivotal advancement in malaria prevention strategies. The Ministry of Health has received over 645,000 doses, distributing them across 28 counties burdened with high malaria incidence while continuing to devise plans for broader distribution. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that South Sudan experiences one of the globe’s highest rates of malaria, with an estimated 7,680 cases and 18 fatalities occurring daily. This mosquito-borne disease is a principal cause of mortality among children in the country, with 2.8 million pediatric cases and 6,680 deaths reported in 2022. Medical professionals express optimism regarding the potential impact of the R21 malaria vaccine on current health challenges, as the government invests considerable resources in procuring anti-malarial medications and testing kits. Furthermore, the Malaria Consortium has reported that, in 2023, 85 percent of the population at risk was safeguarded by the prescribed preventive strategy of utilizing treated mosquito nets, underscoring the critical nature of this intervention in malaria control efforts. Researchers continue to advocate for the use of treated mosquito nets as a vital defense against the disease.

The situation in South Sudan regarding malaria is dire, with the country facing grave challenges due to its geographical and climatic vulnerabilities. The recent flooding has exacerbated existing health concerns, notably increasing the risk of malaria. The R21/Matrix-M vaccine represents a significant step forward in combatting this disease, which disproportionately affects children and has critical implications for public health in one of the world’s least resilient healthcare systems. Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in South Sudan, necessitating urgent attention and intervention.

In conclusion, the warning issued by the United Nations regarding the potential resurgence of malaria in South Sudan amidst severe flooding and food insecurity highlights a critical public health challenge. The introduction of the new malaria vaccine provides a hopeful avenue for impact, yet the healthcare system remains under immense pressure. Continued advocacy for preventive measures, including the use of treated mosquito nets, is essential to mitigate the effects of this disease and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Original Source: newscentral.africa