Following the death of a patient suspected to have suffered and died from Rift Valley fever, the Arua City Health Officer has advised the community against managing infectious diseases in clinics.
The patient passed away after experiencing general body pains, fever, and bleeding for several days.
Dr. Pontius Apangu, the Arua City Health Officer, revealed that the suspected case was initially treated at a private health facility for malaria and typhoid. On December 13, 2024, the patient was referred to Oli Health Center IV with symptoms of fever and general body pain.
However, by December 16th, the patient was transferred to Arua Regional Referral Hospital while already exhibiting severe bleeding, and later succumbed to the illness.
Although samples from the patient were sent to the Virus Research Institute, Dr. Apangu said on Wednesday that the results are still pending. He added that health officials took precautionary measures during the burial and identified contacts to monitor for any similar cases.
Dr. Apangu emphasized the importance of seeking medical support from competent health facilities that can accurately diagnose and control the spread of infectious diseases, as well as promptly refer cases if needed.
He stressed that prevention and early management begin at home, urging patients to inform their families about their conditions. Families, in turn, should seek treatment at facilities equipped to handle infectious diseases effectively.
At health facilities, Dr. Apangu highlighted the need for immediate action, including necessary referrals, to ensure proper care.
Rift Valley fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Rift Valley Fever Virus transmitted from infected animals to humans through contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues during slaughter, veterinary procedures, improper disposal of carcasses, or assisting with animal births.