Health authorities in Luwero District have confirmed an outbreak of measles, with over 50 cases reported among children under five years of age. The outbreak has been identified in Luwero town council and Luwero sub-county, prompting an urgent response from the district health department.
Dr. Innocent Nkonwa, the Luwero District Health Officer, revealed that five samples were collected and sent to the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), where they tested positive for measles. In response to the outbreak, the district has launched a massive vaccination campaign aimed at protecting children and curbing the spread of the disease.
The vaccination drive is set to run from Monday, 2nd September to 6th September 2024, targeting children aged nine months to 11 years. The initiative is expected to reach approximately 105,000 children under five years across the district.
Dr. Nkonwa emphasized the importance of the campaign, noting that vaccinating the children will help establish herd immunity and prevent further transmission of the highly contagious virus.
Measles is a severe viral infection that, according to the World Health Organization, causes symptoms such as fever, a red rash, cough, and watery eyes. If not properly treated, the disease can lead to serious complications, including blindness, severe respiratory issues, ear infections, and extreme dehydration due to diarrhoea.
Parents and guardians in Luwero District are urged to ensure their children are vaccinated during the scheduled campaign to protect them from the dangers of measles.