Alarming Measles Outbreak Detected!

KAMPALA, April 21 – Uganda is grappling with a concerning measles outbreak affecting three refugee settlements as the country receives a wave of individuals fleeing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Confirmed Cases on the Rise!

The Ministry of Health has reported nine confirmed cases of this infectious viral disease within just the past week. The affected areas include Nakivale and Oruchinga refugee settlements in Isingiro district, alongside the Matanda transit center in Kanungu district, all located in western Uganda.

Swift Response Underway!

In light of this urgent situation, health authorities are ramping up efforts with active case searches happening both at community level and within health facilities. Village health teams (VHTs) are conducting door-to-door sensitizations and diligently searching for additional cases.

Additionally, specialized screening is being conducted at points of entry by triage teams, focusing on symptoms such as fever, rashes, dry cough, and runny nose.

Vaccination Campaign Launched!

In a proactive measure, health officials have launched a vaccination campaign aimed at newly arrived refugee children aged 6 months to 15 years. Just this past Sunday, 105 children at the Matanda transit center received vaccinations against measles and rubella.

Tragic Losses Reported!

The outbreak’s seriousness was underscored by tragic events last month when two children lost their lives due to measles, and another 68 cases were diagnosed in a settlement harboring South Sudanese refugees in Uganda's mid-western district of Kiryandongo.

What You Need to Know!

Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases, transmitted through coughing and sneezing, with potential for severe health complications. Symptoms typically develop 7 to 14 days post-infection, characterized by high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.

This outbreak highlights the urgent need for health interventions in vulnerable communities, especially as the region faces ongoing humanitarian challenges.