Health Ministry confirms cholera outbreak in Kiryandongo
"The situation is alarming, and we need immediate action to prevent further spread of the disease," Ochiba stated.
Kiryandongo: The Ministry of Health has confirmed a cholera outbreak in the Panyadoli Refugee Settlement in Kiryandongo District.
The confirmation came on Monday during a stakeholders’ meeting at the district headquarters, where officials revealed that four samples tested positive for cholera at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI). The outbreak has claimed three lives so far.
James Ochiba, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Environmental Health, expressed concern over the district’s limited resources in handling the crisis.
“The situation is alarming, and we need immediate action to prevent further spread of the disease,” Ochiba stated.
Despite their efforts, he appealed for additional support. “We are doing our best to contain the situation, but we urgently need more assistance.”
Ochiba emphasized the importance of scientific interventions, including the closure of food vending points in the refugee settlement to prevent further contamination.
District Health Officer Adda Christina confirmed that she has already written to the Ministry of Health, requesting immediate support to combat the outbreak.
Health officials have launched an investigation to determine the source of contamination, with suspicions pointing to unsafe food and water.
Surveillance focal person Opido Saimon noted that Cluster A has only one water point, and many residents lack latrines, raising serious hygiene concerns.
District Education Officer Edward Kirya urged schools in affected areas to reinforce hygiene measures to curb the spread of cholera.
“We have instructed schools to ensure that all students wash their hands regularly and that all food and water served is safe and clean,” Kirya stated.
District Chairperson Edith Aliguma Adyeeri called upon Uganda National Water and Sewerage Corporation to provide clean water to affected areas.
She also advised schools to postpone events that attract large crowds and ensure that both students and staff are aware of cholera symptoms and preventive measures.
Organizations such as Action Against Hunger have stepped in to support the district’s efforts in sanitation and hygiene improvement. The organization has already constructed 13 latrines and plans to build 30 more in areas with poor latrine coverage.
The outbreak has impacted several sub-counties, including Mutunda and Bweyale Town Council. Health authorities are working tirelessly to contain the situation and prevent further spread.
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