Bundibugyo grapples with new ‘dancing’ disease
What you need to know:
- Since its outbreak a few months ago, more than 300 people have been infected, most of whom are women and girls.
Health authorities in Bundibugyo District have confirmed an outbreak of a mysterious disease locally referred to as Dinga Dinga, which translates to “shaking like one is dancing.”
Since its outbreak a few months ago, more than 300 people have been infected, most of whom are women and girls.
Some of the patients are currently receiving treatment at Bundibugyo General Hospital.
But no cases have been reported in neighbouring districts.
District Health Officer Dr Kiyita Christopher told this publication on Tuesday that the disease was first reported in early 2023 and remains under investigation. He said some samples have been collected from affected individuals and sent to the Ministry of Health laboratories for further analysis.
The disease is characterised by symptoms such as fever and body shaking, leading to difficulties in walking. This peculiar symptom inspired the Dinga Dinga name among locals.
Dr Kiyita explained that Dinga Dinga is a self-healing disease in most cases and that the village health teams have been managing associated symptoms with antibiotic medication.
He added that although the disease is manageable and no deaths have been recorded so far, some patients have turned to traditional herbalists for treatment, which he strongly discourages.
“There is no scientific evidence that herbal medicine can treat this disease. We are using specific treatments, and patients usually recover within a week. I urge locals to seek treatment from health facilities within the district,” he said.
One of the patients, Ms Patience Katusiime, 18, recounted her experience.
“I felt weak and got paralysed, with my body shaking uncontrollably whenever I tried to walk. It was very disturbing. I was taken to Bundibugyo hospital for treatment, and thank God, I am now fine,” she said.
