In response to an outbreak of Hepatitis-E Virus (HEV) confirmed this week in Maban County, South Sudan, International Medical Corps rolled out an Outbreak Preparedness and Response Strategy for HEV and other potential outbreaks such as cholera and shigella in Gendrassa refugee camp. HEVcauses an infection of the liver and can be transmitted by consuming water and food contaminated with feces – it generally spreads in places with poor hygiene. To date, there have been 31 confirmed cases of HEV throughout camps in Maban and 16 deaths recorded with the number of cases increasing daily. International Medical Corps’ outbreak strategy includes active surveillance, treatment, management and referral protocol. International Medical Corps is also establishing a 24-hour, 10-bed isolation unit to manage hemorrhagic jaundice cases.
Social mobilization, community outreach and active surveillance of acute jaundice cases are ongoing. As part of efforts to raise awareness, International Medical Corps conducted a series of community leader trainings focused on HEV signs and symptoms, measures to prevent HEV and the importance of timely referral particularly for pregnant women. International Medical Corps trained 25 community health and hygiene volunteers on health education, hygiene promotion and acute jaundice active case finding. The organization works closely with health, protection and water and sanitation partners on coordinated response, active case finding, health and hygiene promotion, and support for vulnerable groups. International Medical Corps is also providing primary health care, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene services in Gendrassa camp.
For more information, visit the International Medical Corps website