MEDIA RELEASE

The official opening of John Garang Infectious Diseases Unit - a multipurpose unit for managing Infectious Diseases in South

Following the declaration of EVD outbreak in North Kivu and Ituri provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the threat of cross-border spread, has therefore been categorized as a priority 1 country alongside other countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi to enhance preparedness and operational readiness based on the proximity to the outbreak area as well as the capacity to manage EVD outbreaks.

Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has elevated the risk for spread of the EVD within the country and regionally, from ‘high’ to ‘very high’. In this regard, the Ministry of Health with support from WHO and partners has heightened its preparedness and response activities.

As part of its efforts to scale up the preparedness and response activities, the Ministry of Health with support from WHO constructed an Infectious Diseases Unit in at Dr John Garang Diagnostic Center.

The new Infectious Diseases Unit will officially be opened on 20 December 2018. The unit is intended to manage infectious disease and for isolation of suspected Ebola cases awaiting laboratory investigations. The Infectious Diseases Unit is also intended to serve as a training facility to proactively build capacity in case management and other aspects of health emergencies.

Attach the programme of the day

Time Event description Remarks 9.30 – 10.30 1st Vice President arrives at the IDU 1st VP is received by the Hon Minister of Health and inspects the Guard of Honor. Donning ceremony with the traditional gowns. Entertainment ongoing by police band and Acholi group 10.30 – 10.40 1st Vice President and accompanying The 1st VP led by the Hon delegates go to the IDU and unveils the Minister of Health to cut the plaque ribbon and open the plaque at the lDU facility 10.40 - 11.40 The delegation moves to the IDU and Hon Minister assisted by Alex enters through the Triage Freeman guide the tour providing explanations of the different areas of the IDU

11.40 – 12.40 1st VP, Hon Minister of Health and the The Undersecretary guides accompanying delegates move to the the speeches Hon Minister, PHEOC conference room. WR, DSRSG, and 1st Vice Speeches: President and gives a vote of • WHO Representative thanks at the end • Hon Minister of Health • DSRSG • 1st Vice President 12.40-1.30 Media briefing (exclusive interviews) Refreshments and entertainment Departure