Ministry raises alarm as cholera spreads in Uganda

By SAMMY JAKAA

The Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation has raised alarm following a cholera outbreak in Mbale District, Uganda.

The deadly disease is said to have spread to three neighbouring districts of Manafa, Bukedea and Tororo, which border Western Province.

Speaking to the Press, Teso North Medical Officer of Health Melsa Lutomia asked the public to be careful and report any incidences of severe diarrhoea to nearest health facilities. She further instructed all health facilities along the border districts to be on high alert.

District hospital management teams have also been asked to set up emergency preparedness and response teams by putting preventive strategies in place at both health facilities and community levels.

To further curb all possible avenues for the spread of cholera, Lutomia said there is need to establish community unit structures and workforce to be involved in public awareness. She also said community health workers in the district should be sensitised on preparedness in terms of high index of suspicion and laboratory diagnosis of cholera.

Food hawking

They have also been ordered to submit weekly reports, particularly on the trend of diarrhoea in their specific areas

"I appeal to the public to promote hygiene both in public areas and homes," added Lutomia.

Head teachers have also been asked to maintain high level of hygiene in their institutions, as children are the most susceptible to such contagious diseases.

"Markets and eating sites will also be inspected to ensure appropriate sanitation is maintained," she added. Food hawking has been suspended as part of the control measures. The district management team is required to submit weekly reports to the Ministry of Public Health Headquarters through the provincial public health office.

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