By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Writer
Africa map showing Uganda district with latest cholera outbreak. Click on image to enlarge.
An outbreak of cholera in Mbale, Uganda has already claimed two lives, according to a recent report from the Bukasakya Health Center III. As of February 7th, eight other individuals are receiving cholera treatment at the health center.
The source of the outbreak has been traced to the Masanda cell in the Mbale Industrial City Division. According to the report, the first victim was 19-year old Hawa Naula, who worked at the Mbale Industrial Park. After leaving work on February 3rd, Hawa began complaining of severe diarrhea and vomiting. She ultimately passed away the next day.
An immediate neighbor of Hawa's also presented similar symptoms and was hospitalized as well. Samples tested at the Bukasakya Health Center III came back positive for cholera. The city has set up an isolation treatment facility at Bukasakya to handle additional cases.
Mbale City Health Officer Dr. Moses Mugonyi confirmed the cholera outbreak but claimed it is being managed at the moment. However, the Deputy RCC Hamza Banja revealed that residents of the Bukasakya sub-county are fearful of contracting the disease. Banja urged locals to uphold good hygiene and sanitation practices to prevent further spread.
Many communities in Mbale lack access to clean water and pit latrines, which has accelerated contamination. Health teams are working hard to educate residents during this outbreak. Appeals for aid have also been made to the Ministry of Health and organizations like USAID to supplement containment efforts.
As the region works to get this outbreak under control, vigilance about symptoms and early hospitalization were deemed critical by religious leaders and teachers. The Mbale Industrial City Division remains on high alert as health officials combat the infection rate and attempt to prevent more loss of life.
Learn more about the recurrent outbreaks of cholera in Africa:
Published: February 14, 2024
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