Coronavirus: South Sudan announces first case

The first case of contamination by the new coronavirus has been identified in South Sudan, authorities on that country announced on Sunday, one of the last in Africa to indicate that the epidemic has reached its territory.

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"South Sudan confirms the existence of a case of coronavirus," said First Vice-President Riek Machar, during a press conference in Juba. The 29-year-old woman arrived in South Sudan from the Netherlands via Ethiopia on February 28, he said. He did not specify his nationality. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan said in a statement that the infected woman is a member of its staff. She tested positive on Saturday after visiting a United Nations clinic on Thursday.

"The Department of Health is conducting a comprehensive investigation with the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, including identifying and tracking all possible contacts and further action , " said Riek Machar.

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South Sudan has already decided to close bars, night clubs and shops other than those selling food and has recommended that people respect the rules of social distancing. The borders are closed as well as the international airport. A curfew is in effect from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. South Sudan, one of the poorest countries in the world, long torn apart by a devastating civil war, is ill-equipped to deal with the pandemic.