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AmeriCares representatives said violence is sweeping the area leading to tens of thousands in dire need of emergency medical care. Since Dec. 15, the escalating conflict forced more than 410,000 from their homes in the fledgling nation, while an additional 78,000 fled to neighboring countries, according to AmeriCares. While cease-fire agreements took effect on Jan. 24, there are continued reports of clashes.
“In conflict zones, medical needs can quickly overwhelm local health care capabilities,” explained Garrett Ingoglia, vice president of Emergency Response at AmeriCares. “The number of people requiring medical assistance has greatly increased, both as a direct result of conflict, but also indirectly as general public health deteriorates.”
Outbreaks of malaria and acute watery diarrhea have been worsened by overcrowding and lack of public sanitation in some of the conflict areas, representatives said. In response, AmeriCares workers are continuing to send emergency shipments. The shipments include emergency medical modules, health clinic rehab and a portable warehouse. The efforts included the deployment of the AmeriCares emergency response team to ensure that aid reached the areas with the most urgent needs.
"Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has been one of the world’s poorest and under-developed nations, with little infrastructure and few hospitals or health centers," representatives said. "Amid the violence and instability in this troubled region, AmeriCares remains committed to helping the people of South Sudan as long as our support is needed."
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