Ugandan health officials have raised concerns over a surge in Mpox cases in Wakiso District, urging residents to take immediate precautions. The district has reported 561 cases, making it one of the hardest-hit areas in the country. Entebbe Municipality has recorded the highest number of infections at 164 cases, followed by Wakiso Town Council with 111 cases and Nansana Division with 59.
Dr. Emmanuel Mukisa Muwonge, addressing the situation at Wakiso District headquarters, expressed the urgent need for preventive action.
“We are concerned about the rising number of Mpox cases in our district and urge everyone to take precautions to prevent further spread,” Dr. Muwonge stated.
The outbreak extends beyond Wakiso, with Uganda confirming a total of 1,353 cases across 66 districts by December 31. The disease has already claimed six lives, increasing worries about its rapid spread and the strain on the healthcare system.
Children under 18 years old remain the most vulnerable, particularly in high-density urban areas such as Kampala, Wakiso, and Nakasongola. UNICEF data reveals that school-going children are particularly at risk, with 62 reported cases in this group. Kampala leads with 18 cases, followed by Wakiso (15) and Mukono (10). The most affected age bracket is 10-18 years, which accounts for 180 cases.
Authorities in Wakiso District have responded by establishing isolation centers, particularly in Entebbe, to contain infections and reduce the chances of further transmission.
The District Health Office has also intensified public awareness campaigns, urging residents to practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and adopt preventive measures such as the use of protective gear.
“We are doing everything possible to contain this outbreak and need the public’s full cooperation,” Dr. Muwonge emphasized.
Health experts have reiterated the importance of vigilance, emphasizing that Mpox spreads through direct contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids, contaminated materials, and respiratory droplets. Given the rising cases in schools, education officials are working closely with health authorities to ensure proper safety protocols are followed.
As part of containment efforts, authorities are calling on individuals to promptly report any suspected cases and adhere to safety guidelines. Regular handwashing, avoiding unnecessary physical contact, and seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms are critical in controlling the outbreak.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and deploying additional resources to affected districts. The collaboration between health officials, local governments, and international partners will play a crucial role in mitigating the crisis.
With Mpox cases on the rise, public cooperation remains vital in ensuring the spread is curbed effectively. Authorities urge residents to remain alert, follow health advisories, and support community efforts to combat the disease.
