The Ministry of Health in Uganda has issued a press statement updating the nation on the status of the ongoing Mpox outbreak. According to the statement, the outbreak has continued to expand, with a cumulative total of 1,712 laboratory-confirmed Mpox cases reported across the country.
“We are concerned about the rising number of cases, but we are also encouraged by the fact that 1,089 individuals have fully recovered and have been discharged from various treatment facilities,” said Dr. Aceng Jane Ruth Ocero, the Minister of Health.
“However, we regret to inform the public that 10 lives have been lost, with the majority of these individuals having underlying medical conditions such as HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, diabetes, and sickle cell disease.”
The outbreak, which began in late July 2024, has seen a significant increase in cases over the past few months. 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.
Minister Aceng emphasized that the Ministry of Health is working tirelessly to contain the outbreak. “We have intensified our surveillance efforts, and we are working closely with our partners to ensure that we have adequate supplies of medicines and logistics,” she said. “We are also conducting public awareness campaigns to educate the public on the prevention and control of Mpox.”
The Ministry of Health has also announced plans to launch a vaccination campaign against Mpox in February 2025. The campaign will target high-risk populations, including commercial sex workers, men who have sex with men, and healthcare workers.
“We urge all Ugandans to remain vigilant and to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Mpox,” said Minister Aceng.
“We also urge those who are eligible for vaccination to come forward and get vaccinated. Together, we can stop the transmission of Mpox and bring this outbreak under control.”
The Ministry of Health has also warned against stigmatizing individuals who are infected with Mpox. “We must treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their health status,” said Minister Aceng.
“Stigmatization can drive the outbreak underground and make it more difficult to control. We must work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all individuals affected by Mpox.”
As the outbreak continues to evolve, the Ministry of Health remains committed to providing accurate and timely information to the public. The Ministry has urged all Ugandans to remain vigilant and to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Mpox.