Cholera outbreak kills 8 in central and eastern Uganda
A cholera outbreak in central and eastern Uganda has killed eight people, the Ministry of Health has confirmed.
Ten cases have been confirmed and fifteen others are suspected in Kayunga District and Namayingo District.
Cholera is a severe infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is transmitted through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include watery diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and death.
The authorities are focusing on community awareness and hygiene to contain the outbreak. They are also providing clean water and soap to help people maintain proper hygiene.
This is not the first time that Uganda has faced a cholera outbreak. In 2019, two people died from cholera in Kampala. And in 2020, at least ten people were hospitalized in Busia District with the disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified cholera as a global threat to public health. The disease is particularly deadly in areas with poor sanitation and access to clean water.
The authorities in Uganda are urging people to be aware of the symptoms of cholera and to seek medical attention if they are experiencing them. They are also reminding people to wash their hands frequently and to drink only clean water. (ILKHA)