Cholera hits northwestern Uganda

An outbreak of cholera has been confirmed in Moyo district, northwest of Uganda, killing at least three, local media reported Saturday.

The disease has been seen in Obongi sub-county last week when the first victim died a fortnight ago. Local health officials were not able to diagnose it until samples sent to Kampala for tests confirmed the epidemic of cholera.

Sam Okware, the commissioner for clinical and community services, said in a statement that a rare cholera of inaba sub- type has hit the district, causing three dead and 41 infected.

"With inaba, the diarrhea is not as intensive as in the common cholera. It (diarrhea) is mild and patients tend to improve faster, hence not a serious danger," he said.

Earlier report quoted local MP-elect Hassan Kaps Fungaroho as saying that six people died over last weekend, which were not confirmed by the health department.

It also indicated that the cholera-like disease left over 20 people hospitalized in critical condition while at least five were being admitted daily with mild diarrhea.

The Health Ministry has been working with the district to control the epidemic by conducting public education and through improved surveillance of the people.

Okware called on local people to be aware of the hygienic guidelines including washing hands before dining, drinking boiled water and eating hot food, and avoiding feasting at funerals of cholera victims or spending long time at their vigils.

He also called on the public to report all suspected cholera cases to the nearest health units.

Source: Xinhua