A statement issued this morning indicates that a number of Measles cases have been confirmed in Kamwenge district, western Uganda and in Kamuli, eastern Uganda. The disease has been detected in children tween 5 and 14 years of age in the Sub Counties of Butandise, Nawanago, Balawoli, Nabwigulu and Kamuli Municipality.
The outbreak of Measles in Kamwenge is attributed to the recent influx of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo-DRC and the work of religious cults that deter followers from accessing health services.
Measles, an acute viral respiratory illness associated with high fever, rashes and vomiting, is one of the leading causes of death among young children accounting for 114 900 deaths globally - about 314 deaths every day or 13 deaths every hour, according to statistics by the World Health Organisation.
In the same vein, the ministry says parts of Lango sub region are battling an outbreak of Rubella, an acute, contagious, viral infection caused by the Rubella virus. The disease, also known as German-measles, has been reported in Awei Sub County and in Alebtong district.
A total of five samples have so far been received, three of which tested positive to Rubella and negative for Measles, according to the statement issued by Prof. Anthony Mbonye, the acting Director General of Health Services.
The disease is usually mild, with symptoms including a rash, low fever, nausea and mild conjunctivitis. The disease is also characterized by swollen lymph glands behind the ears and in the neck, and a rash which usually starts in the face and neck before progressing down the body.
Rubella has no specific treatment but is preventable by vaccination.
Dr Mbonye says government is taking a number of measures to control further spread of the diseases. These include increased surveillance, sensitization-to educate the masses about the signs, symptoms and dangers of the diseases, and undertaking mass immunization programmes for children.
He appeals to the public to avoid direct contact with children infected with the disease and report suspected cases to health facilities.