422 confirmed Mpox cases, Mbarara
Authorities at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital are urging the public to stay alert and adopt preventive measures against the spread of Mpox following a surge in confirmed cases in the region.
Halson Kagure, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer revealed that since October 2024, the facility has reported 422 confirmed Mpox cases out of 475 suspected cases. Of these, 279 patients have successfully recovered and been discharged while 14 are currently receiving treatment at the hospital’s Infectious Disease Treatment Center. Tragically, four individuals have succumbed to the disease during this period.
Dr. Deus Twesigye, the Acting Director of the hospital and a Senior Consultant in General Surgery highlighted the primary mode of transmission stating that majority of infections can be traced back to sexual contact. He cautioned that while physical contact is the main route of transmission, condoms may not provide complete protection against Mpox.
In response to the outbreak, the government has initiated a vaccination campaign aimed at high-risk groups including commercial sex workers, bar attendants and healthcare workers. According to recent reports, approximately 8,000 individuals have been vaccinated in Mbarara City.
As of April 14, the Ministry of Health reported a total of 5,386 confirmed Mpox cases nationwide with 40 fatalities recorded. Public health authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance, proper hygiene and safe practices to curb the spread of the disease.
With the ongoing efforts to control the outbreak, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital remains committed to providing care and support to those affected, while reinforcing the need for community cooperation in implementing preventive measures against Mpox.
