JUBA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan and the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday announced new cases of guinea worm infection in Western Lakes State.

Riak Gai, Health Minister told journalists in Juba, that despite over 15 months of intensive surveillance system in the country to ensure no infection recurrence, the country has confirmed three new cases of infection.

Gai said the three confirmed cases were detected amid intensified cash reward program started by the ministry aimed at promoting credible reporting of guinea worm infections.

"As a result, many suspects were detected and over 25 worm specimens were taken for laboratory analysis in CDC Atlanta, Georgia of which three were confirmed positive," Gai said.

He attributed the detection of the new cases to the ongoing disarmament of the civilians in the greater Lakes states areas, which allowed the eradication program to reach all the cattle camps inhabited by the local communities.

"Our surveillance team is succeeding in detecting hidden cases that otherwise would have gone unnoticed and might have caused more widespread infection," he said.

The minister said the detection of the three cases demonstrates strong surveillance system and effectiveness of the country's guinea worm eradication program.

Moses Mutebi Nganda, WHO South Sudan Representative, said the recent setback following detection of three new cases in the country is a new challenge the country faces.

"I am totally convinced that eradication of guinea worm disease in this country is on the horizon if the right measures are put in place," Nganda said.

In June, South Sudan said it was on the verge of eradicating guinea worm after the country recorded zero cases last year and during the first quarter of 2018.

The three victims are cattle keepers -- two female teenagers and a 25-year-old man who are now receiving treatment. Enditem