Pader registers suspected case of Mpox

Pader: Heath authorities in Pader district have registered a suspected case of Mpox, previously known as monkeypox.

This comes after a young boy who initially reported to Oryang Health Center II in Pajule Subcounty and  later referred to Pajule Health Center IV  presented symptoms of the disease.

The boy is currently being managed at Pajule Health Center IV, and health officials are awaiting test results from the Uganda Virus Research Institute to confirm the diagnosis.

Justine Ocen, the Pader District Secretary for Health and Education and Vice Chairperson, stated that the boy showed signs and symptoms of Mpox, causing concern among the public.

Ocen emphasized that any medical condition can only be confirmed through laboratory analysis, and they are currently awaiting sample testing results from the Uganda Virus Research Institute.

He added that while the boy has a rash that resembles symptoms of Mpox or chickenpox, there is no need for alarm until all medical investigations are complete. The boy is currently being managed at Pajule Health Center IV, and health officials are making every effort to determine the cause of his condition.

Ocen also urged the community to remain vigilant but to avoid spreading fear unnecessarily.

Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero reported that Uganda recorded its first two Mpox cases in Kasese District earlier in August, noting that they were imported from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Three weeks later, on August 19, 2024, another case was identified in Kampala, and the patient is currently being managed at the National Isolation Facility in Entebbe.

Mpox can present with a variety of signs and symptoms, including a rash that may appear on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or around the genitals. Other common symptoms include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and a general feeling of fatigue. Individuals may also experience myalgia, which includes muscle aches and back pain, along with headaches. Respiratory symptoms such as a sore throat, nasal congestion, and cough may also occur.

Mpox is transmitted to humans through contact with infected wild animals, such as squirrels. Among humans, it spreads via direct or sexual contact with an infected individual. Although Mpox often resolves on its own, it can be fatal in certain cases, particularly among children under five years old, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems such as those living with HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Aceng underscores an urgent need for action and collaboration at all levels, asserting that early action and timely action of mitigation measures helps prevent the extreme costs of a full-blown outbreak, which we have experienced with the various outbreaks.

She emphasizes that all possible measures should be taken to prevent the disease from spreading beyond Uganda’s borders, stressing that individuals who have been in close contact with active cases have been placed on a no-travel list.

Dr. Aceng urges people to be vigilant and protect themselves from the infection. “Avoid contact, wash hands with soap and water, do not share clothing or bedding, and avoid sex with partners that you don’t know,” she advises.

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