THE AFRICA TIMES | SOUTH SUDAN —
AWEIL – A 70-year-old Aweil resident has died after exhibiting rabies symptoms. The death has intensified concerns among health officials. They cite increasing untreated dog bites in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.
Death in Aweil Linked to Rabies
Mayen Ayuel, was admitted to Aweil Civil Hospital. He remained there for three weeks following a dog attack. Medical personnel suspect the dog carried the rabies virus.
Ayuel died in the emergency ward. He displayed advanced rabies symptoms, including excessive salivation. His death underscores the dangers of rabies in the region.
Delayed Treatment Contributed to Fatality
Luka Lual Aleu, the hospital’s health education focal person, confirmed Ayuel’s death. He stated that the victim was brought to the facility, but treatment was too late. The man’s condition deteriorated despite medical intervention.
According to Aleu, doctors initially suspected another illness. The diagnosis was revised as Ayuel’s symptoms became more severe. Ultimately, he succumbed to the disease.
Challenges in Rabies Prevention
Aleu attributed Ayuel’s death to negligence and public perception. Many do not view dog bites as serious health threats. He urged residents to seek prompt treatment after a dog bite and vaccinate their pets.
“People don’t agree with what we tell them,” Aleu said. “We always tell people to seek treatment when they are bitten by dogs. Dog owners are also asked to vaccinate their animals because deaths are occurring a lot.”
Cost of Treatment a Major Obstacle
Local residents stated that treatment costs present a significant barrier. A single rabies vaccine dose costs approximately 100,000 South Sudanese Pounds. A full vaccine course may cost 700,000 SSP.
These costs are prohibitive for many families, impeding effective prevention. Lack of resources thus exacerbates the public health challenge posed by rabies.
Call for Increased Awareness
Health workers worry more preventable deaths are looming. This is if public awareness remains low. They also cite rising treatment costs as a factor.
Aleu emphasized rabies is almost always fatal without early treatment. He urged authorities and animal owners to consider dog bites as serious emergencies. Early medical intervention is essential to survival.
