The Ministry of Health has equipped 2,702 teachers from 1,440 schools in high-risk areas with the knowledge and tools necessary to strengthen school health systems and curb the spread of Mpox among students. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health as schools prepare to reopen.
In a statement to the press on Friday, Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng shared that Uganda is facing a continuing Mpox outbreak, with 1,712 laboratory-confirmed cases reported nationwide. While 1,089 individuals have recovered and been discharged, there have been 10 fatalities, all of whom had underlying health conditions. Currently, 169 patients are still under treatment in specialized isolation centers.
Minister Aceng emphasized that the government plans to provide additional training for more educators and school nurses in the lead-up to the start of the first school term next month. This will ensure that schools are prepared to manage potential health risks effectively.
Aceng also urged local authorities to take stricter actions in regulating high-risk venues such as saunas and massage parlors, which are believed to contribute to the spread of Mpox. She further stressed the need for local governments to ensure that schools implement necessary preventive measures, including proper classroom ventilation to minimize airborne transmission of the virus.
To raise awareness, the Ministry of Health has developed child-friendly materials to educate the public about Mpox. Additionally, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Ministry has outlined specific guidelines for schools to follow in preventing, detecting, and controlling Mpox, ensuring the health and safety of students and staff while maintaining normal school activities.
Looking ahead, Uganda is set to launch a national Mpox vaccination campaign in February, following the arrival of 10,000 doses of vaccines, courtesy of a donation from the United States. Dr. Mary Boyd from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) acknowledged that Mpox has affected numerous countries globally, with Uganda among the hardest-hit nations. She noted that cases have been reported in various parts of the world, including the USA, Germany, Sweden, Thailand, and India.
In addition to the vaccine donation, the U.S. has also provided Uganda with over 10,000 Mpox test kits and other laboratory supplies to aid in testing and case detection efforts. Dr. Boyd reiterated the importance of global collaboration in addressing the ongoing Mpox outbreak as a significant public health concern.
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