The Ugandan government has ruled out the implementation of a lockdown as a containment measure against the resurgence of COVID-19 in Kabale District, Western Uganda. Five individuals have been isolated after testing positive for the virus on Tuesday, but the Ministry of Health spokesperson, Mr. Emmanuel Ainebyoona, stated that the positivity rate is minimal, and treatment is available for symptomatic patients.
On Wednesday, Dr. Anne Marion Namutebi, a consultant physician at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, confirmed the isolation of the five COVID-19 positive patients in the medical ward. She reported that they were responding well to treatment and had received a consignment of Paxlovid medicines from the American government through Uganda’s Ministry of Health. Dr. Namutebi urged the public to undergo quick screening if they experience symptoms like headache, fever, cough, and general weakness.
Dr. Namutebi stated that since the final weeks of December 2023, eight COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Kabale, with five currently admitted, one discharged, and four undergoing medication. She expressed hope that widespread vaccination would mitigate the impact, acknowledging the challenge faced by some unvaccinated Ugandans.
Mr. Henry Kanya, the hospital epidemiologist, revealed that 54% of the population in Kigezi sub-region, equivalent to 400,253 people, has received vaccination. Kabale District Health Educator, Mr. Alfred Besigensi, emphasized the importance of public participation in vaccination and adherence to safety measures, urging the public to get vaccinated, wear masks, use sanitizers, and avoid crowded places.
The Kabale Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Godfrey Nyakahuma, stated his intention to collaborate with health experts in the district to formulate strategies preventing the further spread of the disease. He advised the public to observe standard operating procedures such as handwashing, mask-wearing, and other precautions.
The global COVID-19 situation had seen a transition from emergency mode to managing the virus alongside other infectious diseases by May 5, 2023. By November 2023, 72% of people worldwide had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, leading to a significant reduction in severe illness and hospitalizations.
