Health authorities in Kagadi District have confirmed a measles outbreak that has so far claimed five lives, raising concern among residents and local leaders.
The outbreak has been reported in Kyakabadima, Kyaterekera, and Ndaiga sub-counties, with children aged one to five years the most affected. According to Kagadi District Health Educator Aisha Justine Tumwebaze, the first cases were detected in February 2026 and have since spread across affected communities. Samples collected from suspected patients were tested at the Uganda Virus Research Institute and confirmed positive for measles.
Authorities have intensified immunisation and community sensitisation campaigns to contain the outbreak. Patients are also being given Vitamin A supplements as part of treatment.
Tumwebaze urged residents to avoid overcrowding and to ensure children are vaccinated, particularly in high-risk areas. Health officials say they are closely monitoring the situation as response measures are scaled up across the district.
This is not the first measles outbreak in Kagadi. In 2019 and 2020, six children under five died from the disease, with cases reported in Ndaiga, Bwikara, Muhorro, Rugashali, Burora, and Mabaale sub-counties.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that presents with fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and inflamed eyes. Patients may also develop white spots inside the mouth and a widespread skin rash, typically appearing 10 to 14 days after exposure.
