KASESE, UGANDA – Health officials in Kasese District have confirmed a case of yellow fever in Bukonzo County East, prompting increased vigilance and preventive measures to curb the disease’s spread.
Arafat Bwambale, the District Surveillance Focal Person, has called on residents to adopt protective practices such as sleeping under treated mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and keeping doors and windows closed during peak mosquito activity in the early morning and evening.
Vaccination: The Most Effective Defense
Bwambale emphasized that vaccination remains the most reliable safeguard against yellow fever, urging eligible individuals to take advantage of free vaccination services available at community health facilities.
“Everyone eligible should take advantage of the free vaccination services to protect themselves and their families,” Bwambale said.
This confirmed case comes just a year after Kasese conducted a mass yellow fever vaccination campaign targeting 95% of eligible individuals aged 9 months to 60 years. The campaign was designed to mitigate the district’s high-risk status due to its proximity to national parks, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes that carry the virus.
Understanding Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a severe viral disease transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Early symptoms include fever and yellowing of the eyes (jaundice), while severe cases can lead to bleeding from body openings and potentially fatal complications.
Health authorities are encouraging residents to remain calm but alert, stressing that early detection, vaccination, and preventive measures are crucial in controlling the disease.
Call for Community Action
With Kasese’s location near national parks posing a persistent risk, the district health team is doubling down on public awareness to ensure community cooperation in combating the disease. Residents are urged to report any suspicious symptoms promptly and to prioritize preventive practices.
As the district works to manage this confirmed case, public health officials reaffirm their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.
