Kikuube district has reported a suspected case of Monkeypox to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) and chairman of the Monkeypox district task force, Mr. Amlan Tumusiime. A young boy from Kihohoro Village in Kidoma Parish is currently under observation, with blood samples sent for testing and results still pending.
Tumusiime emphasized the urgent need for the Ministry of Health to enhance screening services at the district level. He called for the provision of adequate equipment capable of detecting Monkeypox before symptoms manifest and spread within the community.
Last week, Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng warned that certain groups are at heightened risk of contracting Monkeypox if immediate precautions are not taken. Those at risk include individuals in close contact with Monkeypox patients, such as household members and sexual partners, as well as caregivers who may lack proper personal protective equipment.
Dr. Aceng also outlined the signs and symptoms of Monkeypox, which include skin rash, fever, sore throat, headache, body aches, back pain, low energy or general weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.
The resurgence of Monkeypox this year has raised global concerns, with initial cases reported in multiple countries outside the endemic regions of Central and West Africa. The outbreak, which began in early 2023, has spread rapidly due to increased international travel and inadequate containment measures.
Authorities in Kikuube district are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any unusual symptoms to health officials as they work to contain the situation.
