Health Officials in Wakiso Raise Alarm Over Mpox Outbreak

Health authorities in Wakiso District have issued an urgent warning to residents following confirmation of new Mpox (formerly monkeypox) cases in the area. Dr. Emmanuel Mukisa Muwonge, the District Health Officer, revealed that the disease continues to spread within communities, with new infections being reported daily. This alert comes shortly after Uganda successfully contained its recent Ebola outbreak, with health officials now shifting focus to this emerging public health threat.  

Dr. Muwonge emphasised the need for heightened vigilance among residents, particularly regarding modes of transmission. "Mpox spreads primarily through close physical contact," he explained. "We're strongly advising against sharing utensils or engaging in intimate contact with anyone showing symptoms." The health officer expressed concern over recent reports of an Mpox-related death in Nansana Municipality, which suggests the virus may be spreading undetected through communities.  

The district's health team faces significant challenges in containing the outbreak due to public complacency. Officials noted with alarm the continued overcrowding in public transportation, with taxis and boda bodas regularly carrying multiple passengers in close quarters. "This kind of behaviour creates ideal conditions for disease transmission," Dr. Muwonge stated. He urged residents to report any symptoms - including rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes - to healthcare facilities immediately.  

Margaret Nkinzi Mazzi, the district councillor responsible for health matters, acknowledged the difficulty in convincing some residents about the seriousness of the threat. "We're dealing with scepticism in some communities," she admitted. "But we must keep emphasising that this is a real and present danger." The district has intensified surveillance efforts, with health teams conducting contact tracing and monitoring high-risk areas to identify and isolate potential cases early.  

Health experts warn that Mpox presents different challenges compared to Ebola. While less deadly, its longer incubation period and varied transmission routes make containment more complex. "What makes Mpox particularly concerning is that it can spread before symptoms appear," explained Dr. Muwonge. "This means a single undetected case can seed multiple outbreaks across different locations."  

The district health department has established dedicated treatment centres and is working with community leaders to improve public awareness. Authorities are also coordinating with neighbouring districts to implement consistent screening measures at border points, aiming to prevent cross-jurisdictional spread of the virus. As the situation develops, officials stress that community cooperation remains essential to bringing the outbreak under control.