The Ministry of Health has said 20 districts are currently struggling with measles outbreak, a vaccine-preventable disease that has claimed 12 lives this year alone as the country experiences a resurgence.
Information from the Ministry of Health indicates that the outbreaks have been reported in Bulambuli, Kassanda, Amolatar, Kibaale, Nwoya, Karenga, Amuru, Agago, Kagadi, Kiboga, Kyegegwa, Kaabong, Kotido, Kween, Lira, Sembabule, Kikuube, Gulu, Kazo, Mubende and Adjumani.
Dr Charles Olaro, the Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, said today in Kampala that districts which have reported deaths this year are Kagadi, Kikuube, Adjumani, Bulambuli and Karenga
Dr Olaro indicated that a person with measles is contagious from about 4 days before the rash appears to 4 days after rash onset.
The signs and symptoms of Measles include fever, skin rash, cough, runny nose and red eyes.
According to Dr Olaro, the frequent outbreaks are due to gaps in immunization.
As a result, Dr Olaro said the Ministry has organized a nationwide mass Measles-Rubella immunization which will be in done in October for all children under five, irrespective of their vaccination status.
He said that Measles can be prevented by giving at least two doses of measles vaccine. It is a safe vaccine. The first dose is given when the child is 9 months old or soon afterwards. The second dose should be given when the child 18 months of age.
He added that every child under five years old should receive two doses of the Measles Rubella vaccine at 9 months and again at 18 months of age to achieve full protection against the disease and to help safeguard the health of the entire community.
MEASLES SURGE AS MINISTRY CONFIRMS OUTBREAK IN AT LEAST 20 DISTRICTS
