Uganda has reported 108 confirmed cases of Mpox across 16 districts, prompting a collaborative response involving the World Health Organization (WHO), Uganda’s Ministry of Health (MoH), and several partners to control the outbreak.
The Ministry of Health has drawn from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies to bolster coordination, surveillance, case management, and laboratory capacity. These resources have also been used to engage communities in affected areas to ensure the disease is contained.
Key Districts Heavily Affected
Kampala, Wakiso, and Luweero are among the districts with the highest number of cases. Response teams are working on the ground, improving how quickly cases are identified and enhancing contact tracing efforts to prevent further spread.
Public Health Measures and Vaccination
Uganda’s Ministry of Health is urging citizens to follow strict preventive measures. People are advised to avoid direct contact with anyone infected, practice good hygiene, and seek medical help if they experience symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes.
To further control the spread, vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk groups, especially healthcare workers, are already underway.
WHO Support
WHO is providing critical support by strengthening laboratory networks across Uganda to ensure quick and accurate testing, as well as effective treatment for those infected. These efforts are aimed at minimizing the outbreak’s impact and ensuring timely responses to new cases.
Regional Concerns and Preparedness
This outbreak has also raised alarms in neighboring countries, as cases have been detected across the region. WHO is working closely with East African governments to improve regional health security systems, ensuring they are prepared for any potential cross-border spread of the virus.
By leveraging support from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies, WHO is committed to ensuring that this outbreak is brought under control and that public health across Uganda and the region is safeguarded.
