AWEIL — The Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Ministry of Health has reported 40 cases of Hepatitis E over the past two weeks, with no fatalities recorded so far.
Luka Lual Aliue, the ministry’s Health Education Focal Point, stated that the cases were identified during epidemiological weeks 38 and 39 as heavy seasonal rains intensified across the state. The outbreak has affected multiple areas, with transmissions reported in counties including Aweil East, Aweil North, Gok Machar, and Aweil West.
According to health officials, the surge is directly linked to contaminated water sources during the rainy season, which significantly heightens the risk of Hepatitis E transmission. The state faced a similar situation last year, prompting emergency water treatment interventions in Aweil town.
“In Northern Bahr el-Ghazal, we have some cases of hepatitis,” Aliue said. “We have 40 cases of hepatitis… And we need to make awareness to the community for hepatitis. Because hepatitis is transmitted through the oral route. When the water is contaminated with feces, the feces are mixed with the water. That can transmit the hepatitis virus to human health.”
While there is no specific antiviral treatment for Hepatitis E—leaving health workers to manage symptoms while patients recover—the ministry confirmed that diagnostic services are active. Hepatitis B testing is provided free of charge at state hospitals, particularly for pregnant women and children. Meanwhile, pregnant women showing symptoms such as jaundice, high fever, vomiting, and diarrhea are routinely screened for Hepatitis E.
The ministry is currently collaborating with health partners to scale up preventive measures as cases continue to climb.
Aliue is urging residents to adopt strict hygiene practices, including using proper sanitation facilities, washing hands regularly, and keeping drinking water secure. For communities in rural areas lacking access to treated water supplies, health officials strongly advise boiling drinking water and letting it cool before consumption.
Residents experiencing symptoms are strongly encouraged to visit the nearest healthcare facility immediately for proper screening and clinical management.
