By Richard Onapatum
Napak, Uganda – Authorities in Napak district have sounded the alarm over a surge in cases of elephantiasis, a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) that has been reported in several sub-counties.
According to the Napak Health Department, the number of infections reported to health facilities has risen to 15 in just one year, with the disease spreading rapidly. The affected sub-counties include Nabwal, Apeitolim, Poron, Lorengecora, and Iriiri, all of which are located in the wet belt of the district, an area that attracts mosquitoes that spread the infection.
Elephantiasis, also known as lymphatic filariasis, is a disease caused by mosquito bites, which leads to severe swelling of the legs and other body parts. The disease is not treatable, but it can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites.
Timothy Teko, the Napak district health officer, expressed concern over the rising cases of elephantiasis, saying that the first case was reported in Nabwal sub-county between September and December 2023. “We have witnessed the recurrence of elephantiasis cases, and the number is worrying,” he said.
Teko attributed the spread of the disease to the presence of mosquitoes in the wet belt areas of the district. “We are now sensitizing the communities to stay away from swampy areas and to use mosquito nets to prevent bites,” he said.
The Napak district health department has reported the concern to the Ministry of Health and the Neglected Tropical Disease Control program, and a team has been sent to assess the situation and plan interventions.
Teko said that the district health department has embarked on planning meetings to carry out basic treatment and referral for the cases to avoid escalation. “We also want to educate the community on how to manage the infections and not to get scared,” he said.
In addition, the district health department is advocating for the upgrade of health centers and human resources to manage the infections.
On a positive note, the district health department confirmed that the community is now free from trachoma infections, another Neglected Tropical Disease. Teko attributed the success to a project under the Queen Diamond Trust in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
“Napak has been categorized as a community free from trachoma, and we are proud of this achievement,” he said.
The rise in cases of elephantiasis in Napak district is a concern that requires immediate attention. The district health department, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, must work together to prevent the spread of the disease and provide treatment and support to those affected.
As the district health officer, Timothy Teko, emphasized, “We must work together to prevent the spread of elephantiasis and other Neglected Tropical Diseases. We must also educate the community on how to manage the infections and not to get scared.”