Summary:
An outbreak of red eye disease in Kagadi District, Uganda, has affected over 200 individuals in schools and a prison. Limited funds hinder treatment efforts, prompting appeals for government assistance.
The Kagadi District Health Department has confirmed an outbreak of red eye disease in the region, affecting numerous institutions including schools and a government prison, with over 200 cases reported.
According to Ms. Prisca Kanyunyuzi, the Kagadi District Health Surveillance Officer, the outbreak has affected institutions such as primary and secondary schools, prisons, and local villages. “We have identified 228 cases of red eyes among 990 students at Uganda Martyrs Girls SS Mugalike, along with 22 cases at Mambugu Government Prison, 4 at Mambugu Primary School, and additional cases at Kagadi Model Primary School and St Charles Secondary School,” she reported.
Ms. Kanyunyuzi highlighted the lack of allocated funds in the district health department for procuring recommended drugs for this specific disease. “We are facing a shortage of resources to address this disease, and affected institutions are also ill-equipped to handle such emergencies. As a temporary solution, we have been sourcing drugs from other health centers in neighboring districts. We have successfully treated inmates at Kagadi Government Prison, and students at Mambugu Primary School, Quality Education Center, and Kagadi Model Primary School,” she explained.
While affected individuals have been isolated for management and treatment, Ms. Kanyunyuzi appealed to the government, especially the Ministry of Health, to provide necessary assistance to contain the spread of the disease.
Dr. Theodora Kajumba, the acting Kagadi District Health Officer, noted the challenge of limited drug supplies from national medical stores during the outbreak. “We urge the Ministry of Health to prioritize funding for such emergencies and provide adequate support to upcountry health facilities. Additionally, we request sufficient medical equipment and transportation means, such as hospital ambulances, to effectively manage these emergencies,” she emphasized.
Mr. Justine Tumwebaze, the District Health Educator, mentioned the initiation of mass sensitization campaigns targeting students and inmates to promote personal hygiene and sanitation practices.
Rev. Fr. Godfrey Kirabo, the head teacher of Uganda Martyrs SS Mugalike, attributed the outbreak to interactions during the Easter break when children visited home. He urged the government and well-wishers to provide necessary assistance amidst the scarcity of resources.
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