In a press statement released on March 16th, 2024, health officials in South Sudan expressed serious concerns about the impact of excessive heatwaves on public health. Extended periods of high temperatures were cited as exacerbating top causes of death globally, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and renal disease, with potential to trigger public health emergencies and excess mortality.
According to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry advisory, most parts of South Sudan are experiencing a heatwave, and high temperatures of 41°C-45°C are expected to persist for at least two weeks.
The Ministry of Health’s disease surveillance department has reported cases of deaths related to excessive heat, prompting the implementation of a system to detect and respond to such cases.
Health officials emphasized the necessity of raising awareness about the health risks posed by heatwaves and prolonged exposure to increased temperatures, urging individuals and communities to follow the guidance provided by the Ministry of Health. Practical interventions to keep homes cool, stay hydrated, and monitor existing health conditions were highlighted as crucial in mitigating the effects of the extreme weather condition, particularly for children and adults with underlying health issues.
In response to the severe weather conditions, the government has announced the closure of all schools from Monday, March 18th, 2024.
Parents are advised to prevent their children from playing outdoors and monitor them for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke during the school closure period. State authorities have been directed to ensure compliance with the school closure measures, with warnings of withdrawal of registration for any school found open during this time.
Minister Yolanda Awel Deng of the Ministry of Health and Acting Minister Martin Tako Moyi of the Ministry of General Education & Instruction have assured the public that both ministries will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
When asked about the measures, Minister Yolanda Awel Deng stated, “The awareness of the health risks posed by heatwaves is necessary, and practical interventions at various levels can save lives.”
Acting Minister Martin Tako Moyi emphasized, “It is imperative that measures are taken to mitigate the impact of severe weather on the health of learners.”
The press statement serves as a warning to the public to take necessary precautions and adapt to the ongoing heatwave while government agencies work to monitor and address the impacts on public health and education.
