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World Vision, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has implemented a comprehensive Mpox response in Nakasongola, the second most affected district in Uganda. Key initiatives include distributing Infection Prevention and Control supplies, training over 200 Village Health Teams, and establishing two isolation centres.

In an effort to curb the spread of Mpox in Nakasongola District, World Vision has partnered with the Ministry of Health to implement a comprehensive response strategy.

Currently, Nakasongola ranks second among districts with the highest number of Mpox cases (84), following Kampala, making it the most affected district outside the Kampala Metropolitan Area.

During the handover of essential materials, including Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) supplies, to health officials from Nakasongola and Mayuge districts, Mr. Paul Mayembe, the World Vision Area Manager for Nakasongola, emphasised the importance of these supplies in addressing the ongoing outbreak. He noted that the items will enable health workers in isolation units to provide quality care to those affected by Mpox and will also aid community health workers in sensitisation efforts.

Mr. Mayembe highlighted that World Vision has been working closely with district authorities, implementing partners, and local leaders to raise awareness of Mpox through capacity-building initiatives and community engagement programmes.

“Over 200 Village Health Teams (VHTs), 100 teachers, 91 faith and cultural leaders, and 17 health workers from various sub-counties and town councils have been trained. These efforts have reached over 40,000 community members,” he stated.

He further noted that the response has been necessitated by the rising number of cases in the district, with the first case reported on September 9, 2024. To manage the outbreak, two isolation and treatment centres have been established at Lwampanga Health Centre III and Nakasongola Health Centre IV.

“We remain committed to supporting the district in managing this outbreak and protecting the community. Our priority is to ensure that those affected, especially children, receive the care and support they need,” he added.

Dr. Byamukama Agaba, the District Health Officer for Nakasongola, noted that the district’s first Mpox case was recorded at Zengebe Landing Site in September 2024. He explained that the district’s 17 landing sites pose significant challenges in controlling the disease due to the high mobility of residents.

“Most of the cases we are now receiving are imported from Kampala and Luweero. While we have sensitised the community on prevention measures, logistical challenges sometimes hinder our efforts,” Dr. Agaba remarked.

He expressed his gratitude to World Vision for their continued support since the outbreak began last year.

“These supplies will be particularly useful as schools prepare to reopen next week. We appreciate our partners for not only providing materials but also contributing to prevention campaigns,” he said.

Dr. Agaba assured the public that the district is well-prepared for the reopening of schools, having conducted sensitisation sessions for school administrators, community members, and cultural and religious leaders to remain vigilant for any signs of the disease.

Uganda has recorded over 2,127 Mpox cases and 12 cumulative deaths to date. According to the Ministry of Health, individuals living with HIV are at a higher risk of contracting Mpox, with the sexually transmitted variant spreading more rapidly and posing greater contagion risks.