Four die after eating meat at funeral in Rakai
The deaths were reported in Muddala, Kyakabikwa and Kyabigondo villages in Lwamagwa sub-county, Rakai District, in Masaka West region.
Four die after eating meat at funeral in Rakai
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Four people have died in Rakai District after reportedly developing a strange illness, prompting police to investigate claims that the victims may have consumed beef served at a funeral.
The deaths were reported in Muddala, Kyakabikwa and Kyabigondo villages in Lwamagwa sub-county, Rakai District, in Masaka West region.
Twaha Kasirye, the Greater Masaka Regional Police spokesperson, said investigations had commenced to establish the cause of the illness, which has so far claimed four lives.
The deceased have been identified as Charles Bangirana, Jenipher Ntegyeriize, Christmas Behakanira and another person whose identity was not immediately established.
Police are also following up three other people who are reportedly receiving treatment at different health facilities after allegedly developing similar symptoms.
According to preliminary information gathered by police, the illness reportedly begins with scab-like sores appearing on the arms, followed by swelling of the chest and death within about two days.
“Investigations have commenced to ascertain the cause of this strange illness. The suspected cause is consumption of beef served at a burial ceremony for the mother of a resident only identified as Umar,” Kasirye said.
He, however, cautioned that the suspected link between the deaths and consumption of the meat had not yet been established, adding that they were waiting for laboratory results.
The District Security Committee has convened over the matter and deployed a ground team to follow up the reported cases and establish what could be behind the deaths.
Samples were collected from the deceased and submitted to the Government Analytical Laboratory for testing. The results are expected to help establish whether the illness was caused by an infectious disease, contaminated food or another factor.
Kasirye said one of the bodies was still at Lyantonde mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination.
Police are working with health authorities and other relevant agencies as investigations continue.
Kasirye urged residents in the affected communities to remain calm and immediately report anyone developing similar symptoms to health authorities instead of resorting to self-medication.
He also appealed to residents to avoid spreading unverified information about the suspected outbreak until the laboratory and postmortem results establish the actual cause of the deaths.