Kwania on high alert after measles outbreak confirmed

The Kwania District health department has intensified surveillance and immunization efforts following a confirmed measles outbreak. Four cases have been confirmed among children under the age of five in Itekiber Parish, Nambieco Subcounty.

The Uganda Virus Research Institute in Entebbe confirmed the results after health workers sent five samples from children showing signs and symptoms of measles. The move followed the death of a child in a neighboring village from a suspected measles case, prompting immediate response from health authorities

Dr David Okino, the District Health Officer, confirmed the outbreak and said the children who tested positive are now in isolation receiving treatment.

“Two weeks ago, we collected the samples and sent them to Kampala. We initially suspected two cases, but four turned out positive. Those children are now isolated and undergoing medical care,” Dr. Okino said.

He noted that mass immunization has already begun to protect more children from infection.

“Our team is on the ground immunizing all children under five. The Village Health Teams (VHTs) are also engaging the community on how to prevent further spread,” he added.

Mr Tonny Egwar, a resident of Adogwanga Village, appealed for urgent government intervention.

“We need immediate help. This is an airborne disease that spreads very fast,” he said.

Mr Ambrose Okori, the LC3 Chairperson of Nambieco Subcounty, said local leaders are now actively mobilizing parents to ensure all children are vaccinated.

“We’re working closely with VHTs and health workers to reach every household and encourage parents to take their children for vaccination. It’s the only way to contain this outbreak,” he said.