The Infectious Diseases Treatment Center at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital has registered over 126 suspected Mpox cases since the outbreak was reported in July 2024. Of these, 91 tested positive, with 81 patients successfully treated and discharged. Currently, 26 patients remain under clinical management.
Halson Kagure, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, noted that admissions have consistently exceeded 15 patients in recent weeks, straining the facility’s resources. “Managing these patients is costly. We spend UGX 25,000 per patient daily on meals alone,” Kagure explained.
Dr. Deus Twesigye, the Acting Director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, attributes the surge in cases to increased social interactions during the Christmas season, particularly among individuals traveling from Kampala, the outbreak’s epicenter.
During a closed meeting with Mbarara city officials, Dr. Twesigye called for resource mobilization to support the hospital, which is currently covering all patient care expenses. He urged the public to seek medical attention for symptoms such as skin rashes, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and body aches, while also cautioning against the consumption of wild animals.
A Ministry of Health report indicates that as of January 28, Uganda had recorded 2,479 Mpox cases, with Mbarara City being the second most affected area after Kampala.