The number of people killed by Hepatitis E in Kitgum district has increased to 35 from 31 in the past one week, reports Chris Ocowun.

The dead are mainly pregnant women, while the total number of those infected is 1,797.

“The virus, thought to have been brought from South Sudan, was first detected in Lamwo county. It spread to Agoro, Mucwini, Paloga, Potika, Padibe and Lukung sub-counties and is now threatening Kitgum town council,” the deputy resident district commissioner, Sylvester Opira, said on Tuesday.

“We are urging people to visit health centres if they feel feverish. We are also advising couples to delay conception.”

Hepatitis E, which is transmitted through contaminated water and poor sanitation, is more severe among pregnant women. The most common symptoms are jaundice (yellowish eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain and loss of appetite.