At least 25 cases of potentially fatal hemorrhagic fevers and leishmaniasis have been reported in Sudan’s South Kordofan state. No deaths have been reported.

The national cabinet has ordered health officials to step up disease surveillance in the area. Health Minister Abdullah El Tom said the government has sent medical teams to the areas where the two diseases have been reported, including Kadugli, Habila and Abu Jubieha. Treatment is scheduled to start immediately.

Hemorrhagic fevers are generally marked by high fevers and excessive bleeding. There are few treatments available for most hemorrhagic fevers. Leishmaniasis, which is transmitted by sand flies, can cause fever and damage to the spleen and liver. If it goes untreated it is ultimately fatal.

In a press release, El Tom said this year’s outbreak of the diseases is smaller than a similar outbreak last year. He said the problem is exacerbated by the movement of cattle herders in the area and the lack of quality healthcare facilities.

File photo: Kadugli, capital of South Kordofan