Uganda is facing an alarming cholera outbreak, with the number of reported cases rising to 67 since the disease was first identified in the northern region of the country on January 7. The Ministry of Health confirmed the increase in cases, with authorities warning that the situation remains concerning, especially in the northern district of Lamwo, where all the cases have been reported.
According to Daniel Kyabayinze, the Director of Public Health at Uganda’s Ministry of Health, of the 67 cases, seven have been laboratory-confirmed as cholera. The rest are still under investigation as suspected cases. While 21 individuals remain hospitalized, the rest of the patients have received treatment and been discharged. Unfortunately, one death has been reported due to the outbreak.
Kyabayinze emphasized that the disease is suspected to have crossed into Uganda from neighboring countries, possibly through cross-border movement, which has contributed to the spread in the northern region. “We suspect that the disease was imported into the country from neighboring countries,” he stated in a briefing.
The cholera outbreak has been attributed to poor hygiene practices and the consumption of contaminated water. Kyabayinze explained that the affected areas in Lamwo have low latrine coverage, making sanitation difficult and exacerbating the risk of cholera transmission. “The disease has spread through poor hygiene and using contaminated water in areas which have low coverage of latrines and toilets,” he explained.
Cholera is known for its rapid spread, especially in environments with inadequate sanitation, and can be fatal if not treated in time. The disease causes severe acute watery diarrhea and dehydration, which can quickly lead to death without proper medical care.
In light of the outbreak, the Ministry of Health is urging the public to adhere to proper hygiene practices. Kyabayinze recommended boiling water before drinking and seeking medical attention immediately if symptoms of cholera appear. “We call upon people to exercise proper hygiene, boil their water, and report to treatment centers once they get suspected cases,” he urged.
Cholera outbreaks often require large-scale rehydration treatment, which is essential to prevent dehydration-related deaths. The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely, working to contain the disease and prevent further spread.
The cholera outbreak in northern Uganda remains a significant public health concern, with more cases likely as the disease spreads through areas with poor sanitation. The Ministry of Health’s advice on proper hygiene and water safety is critical in controlling the outbreak and preventing further loss of life. Efforts to improve sanitation infrastructure in the affected areas may also play a pivotal role in curbing future outbreaks.