Health officials in Moroto District have confirmed a second case of Mpox, heightening concerns of a potential outbreak in the wider Karamoja sub-region.
Dr. Lemukol James, the District Health Officer (DHO), says lab results from the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) have verified the infection. The patient is an adult male who had close contact with the first confirmed case— a 28-year-old businesswoman from Singila, a suburb of Moroto Municipality.
“Both patients are now in isolation at Moroto Regional Referral Hospital. They remain under strict medical observation,” Dr. Lemukol said on Sunday.
A district emergency response team has been activated. Officials have launched contact tracing to identify and monitor anyone who may have interacted with the infected individuals.
The first patient, who recently traveled within and beyond Karamoja, is believed to have been the source of exposure. Her mobility has raised red flags about how easily the virus could spread across districts.
According to Dr. Lemukol, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been informed and is now collaborating with Uganda’s Ministry of Health to contain the situation.
What is Mpox and Why It Matters Now
Mpox, formerly called Monkeypox, is a rare but serious viral disease. It can spread from animals to humans—and also from person to person through direct contact, body fluids, respiratory droplets, or contaminated materials like clothing or bedsheets.
Symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever, headache, and muscle pain, followed by a distinctive rash that usually starts on the face. Patients may also experience swollen lymph nodes, chills, and general exhaustion.
Although less deadly than smallpox, its cousin virus, Mpox can still cause significant health concerns—especially in regions with limited healthcare resources.
How the Public Can Stay Safe
Authorities are urging the public not to panic, but to take simple, life-saving precautions:
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms.
- Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
- Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing and disinfecting surfaces.
“We call on residents to follow public health guidance as investigations and containment efforts unfold,” Dr. Lemukol emphasized.
With two confirmed cases in under a week, health experts stress that early detection, quick isolation, and public cooperation will be the difference between containment and a full-blown outbreak.
Karamoja’s health systems remain under pressure, but officials say the response is swift, targeted, and under control—for now.
