South Sudan reports 1st COVID-19 case

By Adam Abu-bashal

ABUJA, Nigeria (AA) - South Sudan's vice president on Sunday reported the country’s first novel coronavirus case.

In a statement, Riek Machar said a 29-year-old individual, coming from the Netherlands, tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Machar said the patient arrived at the country on Feb. 28 and was tested on April 2.

David Shearer, the head of the UN Mission in South Sudan, said the patient was quarantined and health status was stable.

Shearer further noted that all individuals who had contact with the patient were monitored.

South Sudan previously announced a curfew as part of coronavirus measures and closed its border crossings.

After first appearing in China's Wuhan in December, the virus has spread to at least 183 countries and regions, according to data compiled by U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University.

The data shows over 1.2 million cases have been reported worldwide, with the death toll at 68,000, and over 258,000 recoveries.

* Writing by Ali Murat Alhas in Ankara.