Measles outbreak in Kamwenge, Kamuli

KAMPALA - The Ugandan health ministry has announced an outbreak of measles in "some parts of the country".

A number of cases have been confirmed in Kamwenge and Kamuli districts, the ministry said in a statement.

Specific areas where measles has been reported include the sub-counties of Butandisi, Nawanago, Balawoli, Nabwigulu and Kamuli Municipality.

An airborne disease, measles affects mainly children between the age of between six months and 10 years. But it can also affect adults.

Kamwenge is facing a second outbreak of the disease which has been attributed to a number of factors. The ministry says that some of these factors include the high influx of refugees from neighbouring DR Congo, religious cults like the Triple 6, cultural attachments and attitudes towards health services.

The government is understood to be undertaking a number ofmeasures to control further spread of the disease:

• Increased measles surveillance

• Conducting sensitization programmes to educate masses about the signs, symptoms and dangers of the disease

• Undertaking mass immunization programmes of children

In the wake of the outbreak, the Ugandan public is urged to:

• Avoid direct contact with children infected with measles

• Report and immediately take any suspected children to nearby facilities

• Take children for immunization in health facilities

Prof Anthony Mbonye, the health ministry's acting director general health services, also announces the outbreak of rubella in Awei sub-county, Aleptong district in Lango sub-region.

As many as five samples have so far been received, "three of which tested positive for rubella and negative for measles".

Rubella, an infection caused by the rubella virus, is characterized by fever, sore throat and fatigue. A rash that is sometimes itchy may appear after two weeks.

The ministry advises the public to "remain vigilant and report all suspected cases to the nearest health facilities".