South Sudan on Tuesday said it had procured COVID-19 laboratory reagents amid heightened vigilance to prevent the spread of the disease in the country.

Makur Matur Kariom, the undersecretary in the Ministry of Health, said the COVID-19 contingency plan is being updated to strengthen the response to the disease.

“South Sudan has now received COVID-19 laboratory reagents, and sample testing can now be done in the country. Emergency kits have also been prepositioned to facilitate suspect case investigation and response,” Kariom told reporters in Juba.

He said social mobilization and risk communication messages and materials are being prepared to enhance public awareness and sensitize the community to report suspected cases.

Gurache Guyo, WHO representative in South Sudan, said three suspected cases have been investigated in the county and turned negative. (Xinhua)