Uganda has received 2,000 doses of mpox vaccines from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to support a vaccination campaign set to launch next month. The announcement was made by Uganda’s Minister of Health, Jane Ruth Aceng, who stated that the vaccines will be used to protect up to 1,000 individuals at high risk of contracting the disease. The vaccination campaign will focus on high-risk populations, close contacts of confirmed cases, and frontline health workers operating in areas with active transmission.
Mpox, a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, was first confirmed in Uganda in August 2022. Since then, the country has reported a total of 1,712 laboratory-confirmed cases and 10 deaths. The majority of the fatalities had underlying medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, diabetes, and sickle cell disease, which made them more vulnerable to the virus. However, there have been at least 1,089 individuals who have fully recovered and been discharged from treatment facilities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern in August 2022, highlighting the potential for the disease to spread beyond borders. Mpox is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person, with symptoms such as fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle aches, skin rash, and back pain. The disease can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects or materials.
In light of the outbreak, the Ugandan government is prioritizing the vaccination of high-risk individuals to curb further transmission. Health officials have assured the public that the country remains safe for travel and business, despite the ongoing efforts to control the spread of mpox. They also encouraged Ugandans to remain vigilant, urging them to report any suspected cases to health facilities for prompt response and treatment.
The vaccination campaign is expected to help protect individuals who are most at risk, including healthcare workers, who are often in direct contact with infected patients. Additionally, it aims to reduce the potential for further outbreaks and provide a proactive approach to the containment of the disease. The government’s swift action, with the support of the Africa CDC, reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing the spread of mpox across the country.
Uganda’s efforts to combat mpox come at a time when many countries are still grappling with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The global health community has emphasized the importance of preparedness and rapid response to emerging infectious diseases. The vaccination campaign in Uganda is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the country remains resilient in the face of public health challenges, safeguarding both its population and the international community.
In conclusion, the receipt of 2,000 doses of mpox vaccines marks an important step in Uganda’s fight against the disease. By targeting high-risk populations and frontline workers, the vaccination campaign aims to reduce the spread of the virus and protect the health of the population. Uganda’s proactive approach in managing the outbreak and promoting public awareness underscores the importance of timely intervention and collaboration with international health organizations to address emerging health threats.
