Health authorities in the Busoga subregion are on heightened alert after three cases of Mpox were confirmed in Mayuge District.
This alarming development has prompted Jinja Regional Referral Hospital to intensify efforts to combat the potential spread of the virus.
Dr. Michael Mulowooza, Head of the Public Health Department at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, confirmed the cases and urged the public to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms.
“Mpox presents with no definite signs; symptoms may include fever, skin rash, or other illnesses. We encourage members of the public to visit health facilities for proper diagnosis,” Dr. Mulowooza advised.
In response to the confirmed cases, Jinja Regional Referral Hospital has established an isolation centre and trained a specialized team of health workers to manage Mpox cases.
Efforts are being amplified through collaborations with local media personalities to raise public awareness about the virus and its transmission.
Uganda first confirmed Mpox cases on July 24, 2024, with the initial cases reported in Kasese District. Since then, the cumulative total has risen to 22 confirmed cases, with three now documented in the Busoga region.
During a recent multi-stakeholder meeting at USAID’s Jinja offices, health experts and journalists discussed strategies for managing the outbreak.
The event, organized by USAID’s Uganda Health Activity (UHA) in partnership with the Social and Behaviour Change Activity (SBCV), focused on enhancing risk communication and promoting community awareness.
“Anyone in close contact with Mpox patients, including household members and healthcare workers not using personal protective equipment (PPE), is at risk,” noted public health specialist Mr. Elijah Kasadha.
He emphasized that individuals with weakened immune systems—such as those living with HIV/AIDS, children, and pregnant women—are particularly vulnerable.
Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is closely related to Smallpox and can be transmitted through contact with wild animals like monkeys, squirrels, and rats, or through direct contact with infected individuals.
Symptoms include fever, rash, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, though the virus can often be difficult to diagnose due to its resemblance to other infections.
As part of their action plan, district health educators will collaborate with local councils, religious leaders, and schools to spread awareness.
Public health facilities in Busoga are ramping up their surveillance and response measures, while media personnel play a crucial role in ensuring accurate reporting to the public.
Mpox remains a global concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) working on vaccine development to mitigate future outbreaks.
For now, authorities in Busoga are determined to prevent further spread through early detection, public education, and coordinated response efforts.
