Health experts have said that more than 50 percent of M-pox patients are in possession of genital ulcers, a symptom linked to a mode of disease transmission in an open sore normally located on genital areas of the vulva, penis, and perianal region most commonly caused by infectious agents from sexually transmitted diseases.
Ugandan health authorities first reported an outbreak of M-pox disease on July 14, 2024, stemming from the importation of a disease from its neighborhood of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where this current outbreak began in January 2023.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the African region is currently experiencing an increase in the number of cases of M-pox disease, with 14 countries affected, and the majority of cases across Africa are in the DRC, with a lead of over 500 deaths reported.
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Dr. Agaba Byamukama, the Nakasongola District Health Officer, said on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, on a local radio that skin rush as a symptom in most cases is predominant on patients; however, 86% is linked to genital ulcers, which present painful open source among patients.
Dr. Byamukama added that his reports presented to his team at the district task force indicated a rise in cases of M-pox disease to 29 as of now.
“The disease spreads mainly through contact; it’s therefore up to us Ugandans to be cautious as a way to prevent the spread,’’ Dr. Byamukama said.
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Dr. Johnson Kanonya, a senior gynecologist who is attached to the M-pox unit in Nakasongola to oversee and manage M-pox cases at Nakasongola Health Centre IV, noted that at least four commercial sex workers were confirmed with M-pox disease, which solely resulted from field attachment on duty.
“The disease can spread faster through body contact, so the public has to be reminded so as to prevent further spread,’’ Kanonya said.
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The Ministry of Health, with support from WHO and other partners, is collaborating closely to strengthen outbreak control measures, which range from disease surveillance, clinical care, community engagements, and public awareness.
