The Ministry of Health, supported by USAID SBCA, has oriented media personnel in the Ankole region to remain vigilant for any potential Mpox outbreak.
While no confirmed cases have been registered in the region, the Public Health Emergency Operations Center has reported five alerts from Ntungamo and Isingiro Districts.
Health officials are taking precautionary measures to prevent the disease from spreading further. “We have had five alerts of Mpox, though they all tested negative,” noted Patience Kyohairwe, Data Analyst PHEOC.
During the orientation, officials emphasized the need for collective efforts and strong communication among health workers, traditional leaders, and media personnel.
Dr. Sebutinde Peter, the District Health Officer of Mbarara, highlighted the symptoms seen in suspected cases, stating,
“Most of the patients coming in have fever and rash among other symptoms.” He stressed the importance of partnerships with local and international entities to curb the disease, urging the public to remain calm and focus on prevention.
Dr. Sebutinde also emphasized the need for accurate information to be shared about Mpox to avoid panic in communities.
Ms. Patience Kyohairwe, the data analyst from Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) pointed out that nationally, men are the most affected by Mpox.
She explained that by gender, men are the most affected, and by age, individuals over 18 years and also the unemployed are particularly at risk.
USAID SBCA further urged the public to assist in mapping potential Mpox hotspots and reporting high-risk areas. "We know people are aware of locations where there is a risk of Mpox outbreaks.
We request individuals from different districts to look around and identify these areas," added Venancia Ahabwe from USAID SBCA.