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As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) battles its 17th Ebola outbreak, now, one of the fastest-growing in the country's history neighbouring South Sudan is scrambling to keep the deadly virus from crossing its borders, warning that conflict, mass displacement and porous frontiers have left the country dangerously exposed.
Projections show the outbreak is advancing northwards towards South Sudan after spreading across five provinces in the DRC.
The warning also carries significance for Kenya. As East Africa's transport, trade and humanitarian hub, Kenya's close links with Uganda and South Sudan mean any escalation of the outbreak could quickly test regional disease surveillance and emergency preparedness.
"We do not have any confirmed case of Ebola in South Sudan. However, the risk of importation of Ebola to South Sudan remains high, primarily because of cross border movements and trade with our neighbouring countries, particularly DRC and Uganda," said the country's Acting WHO Representative, Dr Moses Ongom.
