49 new MPOX cases have been recorded in Uganda. This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed mpox cases in the country to 145. The country’s Health Ministry said on Friday that 27 new cases of the disease were recorded in Uganda’s capital Kampala, the highest number in the East African country in the past week, Xinhua news agency reported.

The ministry confirmed that no deaths have been recorded so far in the 19 affected districts of the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) in Uganda said in a statement that it was supporting the country in efforts to contain the outbreak. WHO said, “WHO, with the support of the Contingency Fund for Emergencies, is collaborating with the Ministry of Health and partners to strengthen coordination, surveillance, laboratory, case management and community engagement in affected areas “

The Ugandan Ministry of Health, in collaboration with partners, has intensified preventive measures to stop the spread of the disease, including increased surveillance, case management, holding health meetings, risk communication and community engagement and public awareness campaigns.

What is MPOX?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a zoonotic disease and hence can spread from animals to humans. MPox usually causes a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. Although most people recover from this condition, some people may become very ill. This virus spreads from one person to another through touch, kissing or sex. It can also be spread through contaminated bedsheets, clothing or needles and from infected pregnant mothers to their unborn babies.

symptoms of mpox

Symptoms appear within 21 days of exposure to the virus. The Mayo Clinic says you may have flu-like symptoms, including a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and cough. Other symptoms may include:

• swollen lymph nodes
• fever and chills
• Headache
• backache
• feeling very tired
• Muscle aches and back pain.

About 1 to 4 days after flu-like symptoms, people usually develop a skin rash. The herpes rash first appears on the face, arms or legs and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash may also begin in the genital area, mouth, or throat.

Preventive measures for mpox

Vaccination is one of the best ways to prevent MPOX. Other forms of prevention include minimizing human contact with infected animals and limiting person-to-person spread.

Other measures to prevent MPox

• Avoid contact with infected animals, especially sick or dead animals
• Avoid contact with bedding and other materials contaminated with the virus
• thoroughly cook all foods that contain meat or parts of animals
• wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus
• Practice safe sex, including using condoms and dental dams
• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when around others
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.

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