The lives of nearly 20,000 people in Upper Nile State capital, Malakal, could be at risk from diseases such as cholera and malaria, the United Nations has said.

The Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan says the humanitarian situation is getting worse after the fighting between government forces and the SPLA-in Opposition forces.

Toby Lanzer, who was on a two-day visit to Malakal and Renk towns, said the conditions for the IDPs in UN camps are appalling.

“We’re keeping them as safe as we possibly can, but the risk of public health such as cholera, malaria is ever present and we will do everything to militate against that,” said Mr Lanzer.

On the situation in Renk County, Mr. Lanzer, said the town has been deserted following the attack last week by the SPLA-in Opposition.

“I think the population felt largely unsafe and many people have gone up to Sudan itself,” he said. “So, we are really concerned about the existing humanitarian [situation], but perhaps even more so about what is coming.”

While in Malakal, Toby Lanzer met with the Governor of Upper Nile State, Simon Kun Pouch, who said he is working to restore stability and security to the town.