By KT Reporter
The Uganda Virus Research Institute has confirmed a measles outbreak in Pader District after samples from two children and an adult in Awere Sub County tested positive. The children, all under ten years old, exhibited typical measles symptoms and are currently in isolation receiving treatment. According to the district health department, the samples were collected on October 22, 2025, and sent to Kampala for laboratory confirmation. Dr. Dominic Okidi, delegated by the District Health Officer, said the district—supported by the Ministry of Health—has intensified surveillance, treatment, and immunization to curb further spread following confirmation of the disease.
Village Health Teams (VHTs) are conducting community sensitization on preventive measures, vaccination, and the importance of early reporting of suspected cases. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary gatherings.
Francis Okello, a resident, called for urgent government support, describing measles as “an airborne disease that spreads very fast.” Esther Lalam, the Awere Sub County councilor, praised district and Ministry of Health officials for their prompt response and urged communities to cooperate with health authorities.She said it has been several years since Awere last recorded a measles case, thanks to past vaccination campaigns, and emphasized the need to sustain immunity to prevent future outbreaks.
Uganda continues to face recurring measles outbreaks due to low vaccination coverage, particularly for the second dose (MCV2), which remains below 50 percent nationally. According to the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2,100 measles cases were confirmed in 2024, with Moroto District recording the highest number, partly attributed to cross-border movement from Kenya.
Health authorities are now intensifying mass immunization and strengthening surveillance, while urging parents to ensure children receive all required doses. Measles spreads when tiny droplets from the nose, mouth, or throat of an infected person reach others. It is highly contagious, with one infected person capable of spreading the virus to 12 to 18 others. After exposure, it typically takes 7 to 21 days for symptoms such as fever to appear.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
