49 New Mpox Cases Reported In Uganda
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Uganda has reported 49 new mpox cases. This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed mpox cases to 145 in the country. The country’s Ministry of Health on Friday said that Kampala, the capital of Uganda, recorded 27 new cases of the disease, the highest in the East African country over the last week, reports Xinhua news agency.
The ministry confirmed that no death has so far been recorded in the 19 affected districts in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) in Uganda said in a statement that it’s supporting the country in the efforts to contain the outbreak. WHO said, “WHO, with support from (the) Contingency Fund for Emergencies, is collaborating with the Ministry of Health and partners to strengthen coordination, surveillance, laboratory, case management and community engagement in affected areas.”
Uganda’s Ministry of Health with support from partners, has intensified preventive measures, including enhanced surveillance, case management, conducting health meetings, risk communication and community engagement and public awareness campaigns to curb the spread of the disease.
What is mpox?
Mpox, earlier known as monkeypox is a viral disease that’s caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a zoonotic disease and hence it can spread from animal to humans. Mpox usually causes painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. While most people recover from the condition, however, some people might get very sick. The virus spreads from person to person through touch, kissing or sex. It can also spread from contaminated sheets, clothes or needles and from infected pregnant mothers to their unborn babies.
Symptoms of Mpox
The symptoms tend to show within 21 days after you come in contact with the virus. Mayo Clinic says you may have symptoms that are like the flu, including a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and a cough. Other symptoms may include:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Backache
- Feeling very tired
- Muscle aches and backaches.
About 1 to 4 days after the flu-like symptoms, people usually get a skin rash. The mpox rash first appears on the face, hands or feet and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash also may start in the genital area, mouth or throat.
Preventive Measures for Mpox
Vaccination is one of the best ways to prevent mpox. Other forms of prevention include reducing human contact with infected animals and limiting person-to-person spread.
Other ways to prevent mpox
- Avoid contact with infected animals, especially sick or dead animals
- Avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus
- Thoroughly cook all foods that contain animal meat or parts
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus
- Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms and dental dams
- Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when around others
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.
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