Authorities at the Kotido District Health Department have heightened surveillance efforts following a measles outbreak in the neighboring districts of Amudat, Nakapiripirit, and Moroto. According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak has claimed six lives in 2024.
Measles, a highly contagious airborne disease, primarily affects children aged 6 months to 10 years and spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with an infected person.
Dr. Cerino Acar, the Kotido District Health Officer, stated that weekly and daily epidemiological updates from the Ministry of Health and the Moroto Regional Emergency Center indicate a growing risk. In response, Kotido has deployed surveillance teams to monitor and prevent a potential outbreak.
“These personnel will work closely with Village Health Teams (VHTs) to ensure the prompt identification and reporting of suspected cases,” Dr. Acar explained. He urged parents to seek immediate medical attention if their children develop symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, and widespread rash.
Dr. Acar further revealed that plans are underway for a stakeholder meeting to strategize on outbreak prevention. He emphasized the importance of routine immunization, urging parents to ensure that all children under one year receive their scheduled measles vaccinations.