Medics at Ayivuni Health Center III in Arua City are currently managing three cases of measles, following the confirmation of positive test results from 48 suspected cases.
The recent cases emerged in Kijorokubu cell, Anzu ward in Ayivu Division, Arua City, an area bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The affected individuals are primarily children below the age of 10 who did not complete the mandatory immunization cycle.
Geoffrey Adiga, Arua City Disease Surveillance Focal Person, highlighted the ongoing medical attention provided to the affected children, emphasizing the critical importance of completing the immunization cycle.
Dr. Pontius Apangu, the principal health officer for Arua City, announced the reactivation of the City task force, the establishment of a surveillance team, and an intensified screening and sensitization campaign to contain the situation. Apangu urged the community not to panic but to prioritize ensuring their children receive the necessary immunization.
“We have just held a meeting with key stakeholders, including Ministry of Health officials, to lay down strategies to contain the situation. There should be no need for alarm among the community but instead ensure their children are immunized,” Apangu assured.
This development marks the second occurrence of measles cases in the West Nile region in less than two years. In May 2022, two cases were reported among new refugee arrivals from South Sudan at Nyumanzi Refugee Transit Centre in the Dzaipi sub-county, Adjumani district.
Globally, measles continues to pose a significant threat to children, despite the existence of a safe and effective vaccine. According to the latest report from the World Health Organization, measles cases increased by 18%, and deaths increased by 43% in 2022 compared to 2021. Ongoing efforts by health authorities aim to control and prevent the further spread of measles in the region.