By Richard Onapatum
Kampala, Uganda – The Ugandan Ministry of Health has reported a significant increase in Mpox cases, with a cumulative total of 1,712 laboratory-confirmed cases reported across the country as of January 17, 2025.
According to the Ministry, 1,089 individuals have fully recovered and been discharged from treatment facilities, while unfortunately, 10 lives have been lost, mainly due to underlying medical conditions.
The Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area remains the epicenter of the outbreak, accounting for 73% of the total cases. Transmission hotspots have been identified in Bwaise and Kawaala, with commercial sex activities and high-risk behaviors contributing to the spread.
Mpox cases have been reported in 71 districts, with 52 districts continuing to report new cases. The Ministry has attributed the spread of the disease to person-to-person transmission, with high-risk groups including mobile workers, vendors, bar attendants, commercial sex workers, and casual laborers.
In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has implemented several measures to contain the spread of the disease. These include enhanced surveillance, public awareness campaigns, capacity building for healthcare workers, and treatment and support for affected individuals.
The Ministry has also announced plans to launch a Mpox vaccination campaign in February 2025, targeting high-risk populations, close contacts of confirmed cases, and frontline healthcare workers.
The public has been urged to take preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease, including avoiding physical contact with individuals showing symptoms of Mpox, refraining from sharing personal items, washing hands regularly, and seeking medical attention immediately upon noticing symptoms.
The Ministry of Health has assured the public that it is working tirelessly to control the outbreak and has urged Ugandans to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures.
The Mpox outbreak has raised concerns about the country’s preparedness to handle public health emergencies. However, the Ministry’s swift response and measures to contain the outbreak have been commended by health experts.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Ministry of Health will provide regular updates on the outbreak and the measures being taken to control it.