Rift Valley fever outbreak confirmed in Mubende
Mubende Regional Referral Hospital has confirmed an outbreak of Rift Valley Fever (RVF).
This information comes from an internal memo from the hospital director.
"I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inform you of a critical public health situation that requires our immediate attention and concerted efforts," the memo reads in part.
"We received results confirming Rift Valley Fever (RVF) from the Central Emergency Response and Surveillance Laboratory in a patient managed at our hospital."
The memo emphasised the imperative need for health workers to respond promptly and effectively to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide the highest standard of care to affected patients.
The confirmation follows a positive RVF test result from the Central Emergency Response and Surveillance Laboratory.
RVF is a viral zoonosis affecting both animals and humans, transmitted through mosquito bites or contact with infected animals' blood, body fluids, or organs.
Symptoms in humans range from mild flu-like illness to severe bleeding.
The memo outlines case definitions for suspected, probable, and confirmed cases of RVF, stressing the importance of swift identification and reporting.
The hospital has activated an emergency response in collaboration with the Regional Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, District Local Government, and Baylor Uganda teams.
Enhanced surveillance and field investigations are underway to contain the outbreak.
Hospital staff are mandated to adhere to strict infection prevention and control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment, rigorous hand hygiene, and environmental cleaning.
Isolation procedures are in place for suspected and confirmed cases to prevent the spread within the hospital.
Healthcare workers are urged to report any cases exhibiting RVF symptoms, especially those with a history of livestock contact or mosquito bites.
The hospital has provided contact information for the Regional Public Health Emergency Operation Centre and surveillance officers for prompt communication.
