Two cases of Mpox have been confirmed in Masindi District, raising concerns about the spread of the virus in the region. On October 15, 2024, health authorities announced the confirmation of the cases after blood samples were tested at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI). The samples were taken from two prisoners at Masindi Prison, who had shown symptoms of the virus.
Chris Rujumba, the surveillance focal person for Masindi Municipal Council, disclosed the information during a council budget meeting. Rujumba emphasized the importance of heightened hygiene measures in the district to prevent the further spread of Mpox. He called on residents to be vigilant and follow public health guidelines to reduce the risk of infection.
Local leaders have expressed concerns about the potential for a rapid spread of the virus. Tregras Isingoma, the Local Council II chairperson of South Ward, warned that Mpox, being highly contagious, could easily spread among the local population if preventive measures are not strictly enforced. He urged the district security committee to take swift and decisive action to control the outbreak.
In nearby Buliisa District, health officials are also on high alert. The district health department is working to trace contacts of individuals suspected of having Mpox. Robert Mugabe, the district health educator for Buliisa, reported that out of eight samples tested last week, one person was confirmed positive for Mpox. The patient, a three-year-old child from Wanseko Town Council, is currently receiving treatment.
Mugabe urged the Buliisa community to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases of Mpox to local health authorities for immediate intervention. He emphasized that early detection and reporting of cases are crucial in preventing the further spread of the virus in the community.
The two cases in Masindi are part of a broader national outbreak of Mpox. According to the Ministry of Health, 34 new cases were confirmed in Uganda in the past week, bringing the total number of infections to 104. The government is closely monitoring 314 contacts of confirmed cases across affected districts.
In response to the rising number of Mpox infections, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other international partners, has intensified efforts to contain the outbreak. Preventive measures include increased surveillance, case management, and public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the disease. Risk communication and community engagement efforts are also being scaled up to encourage the public to adopt preventive behaviors.
Mpox, a viral disease related to smallpox, spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and muscle aches. While Mpox can be treated, it can become severe in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
| Key Locations | Mpox Status | Actions Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Masindi District | 2 confirmed cases | Samples tested, public health guidelines issued, hygiene emphasized |
| Masindi Prison | Prisoners tested positive for Mpox | Isolation measures implemented, health monitoring |
| Buliisa District | 1 confirmed case (3-year-old child) | Contact tracing, public urged to report suspected cases |
| National (Uganda) | 104 total cases confirmed | National surveillance, case management, WHO collaboration |
The government and health authorities are urging communities to follow preventive guidelines, such as maintaining good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and seeking medical attention if symptoms appear. Public health teams will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
| Mpox Statistics in Uganda | Numbers |
|---|---|
| New confirmed cases in the past week | 34 |
| Total confirmed cases | 104 |
| Contacts under monitoring | 314 |
