Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel have been urged to maintain vigilance and adhere to preventive measures as the Mpox outbreak intensifies.

Col. Dr. Henry Kyobe, the incident commander at the Ministry of Health, issued this call during a briefing at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO TC) in Singo, Nakaseke District, underscoring the gravity of the situation on Thursday, January 9th, 2025.

“Mpox is a serious public health threat that spreads through contact. We need to adhere to precautions,” said Col. Dr. Kyobe, addressing the troops.

He revealed that the outbreak has so far resulted in 1,552 laboratory-confirmed cases and 12 fatalities.

Dr. Kyobe outlined the main symptoms of Mpox, which include fever, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and distinctive skin lesions.

Health officials have reiterated their appeal to the public to remain alert, follow established guidelines, and take steps to protect themselves and their communities from the virus.