The Ministry of Health in Uganda has confirmed the presence of a viral influenza wave currently circulating within the population. This wave, characterized by symptoms such as a runny nose, frontal headache, intermittent fevers, dry cough, and general body weakness, began in September of the previous year and is now showing signs of subsiding, according to Dr. Allan Muruta Niyonzima, the commissioner of Integrated Epidemiology, Surveillance, and Public Health Emergencies.
Dr. Muruta reassured the public, stating that such influenza waves are typical during the wet season, and the current wave is expected to diminish. However, cases of prolonged flu symptoms have been reported, with residents sharing their experiences of persistent illnesses despite the flu season nearing its end.
A mother of twins from Kabalagala expressed concern over her daughters’ extended battle with flu, even during the school holidays. Other residents shared similar experiences, citing persistent symptoms like itchy noses and sore throats, which have lingered into the New Year.
While the flu wave is easing, the Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of adhering to Covid-19 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including mask-wearing and sanitization, to minimize the transmission of the current seasonal influenza. First Lady Janet Museveni, who tested negative for Covid-19 after initially testing positive on Christmas Day, serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by the virus.
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, reported no significant rise in flu cases at the hospital. Nevertheless, health authorities stress the importance of continued vigilance, especially with the emergence of new variants of Covid-19 that exhibit higher transmissibility.
In a tweet on January 2, 2024, Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng relayed President Museveni’s directive to provide an explanation for the high transmissibility of Covid-19. Dr. Aceng highlighted the emergence of variants, such as the stealth variant, which appears to bypass oral and nasal routes and directly affects the lungs. She urged Ugandans, especially the vulnerable, to continue practicing precautionary measures despite the World Health Organization’s declaration of the end of the global health emergency related to Covid-19.
