JUBA, May 18 (Xinhua) -- The UN World Health Organization (WHO) and South Sudan said they had put in place measures to prevent an Ebola outbreak that has been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Riek Gai Kok, South Sudan's minister of health, told journalists late Thursday in Juba that his ministry in collaboration with partners like WHO has strengthened vigilance to shield the world's youngest republic from an Ebola outbreak.
"An Ebola outbreak has been declared in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the ministry of health is on high alert in collaboration with WHO and partners, and have set up prevention and preparedness measures that were already in place," said Gai.
The minister said the ministry of health is updating the Ebola contingency plan to strengthen preparedness in case of spread of the virus in South Sudan.
He revealed that the outbreak task force in the states that border DRC that include Tombura, Yambio, Maridi and Yei has been activated to coordinate preparedness and risks monitoring activities.
"A multi-sectorial task force that include various key ministries has been set up. A health team has been deployed at Juba International Airport to screen all incoming visitors. An isolation facility is being set up at Juba Teaching Hospital," Gai said.
He urged the public to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to health workers for immediate attention.
"Surveillance officers at entry points has been alerted and supported to enhance surveillance and early detection cases. In addition, social mobilization and risk communication messages and material are been prepared to enhance public awareness and sensitize the communities to report rumors and suspected cases," he added.
Evans Liyosi, WHO South Sudan representative, said the Ebola virus may not cross over into countries neighboring DRC if they put strong deterrent measures in place.