A laboratory nurse, takes a sample from a child declared a suspected case of Mpox in Munigi, DRC. PHOTO/REUTERS
The US government has issued a travel advisory for Uganda after the country confirmed two imported cases of Mpox, a rare and potentially serious viral illness. The cases, reported in the Kasese District, are linked to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a Level 2 Travel Health Notice has been issued by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The travel advisory, issued by the US Embassy in Kampala, urges American citizens to exercise increased caution when traveling to Uganda, particularly to the affected areas. The advisory notes that the risk of infection is low, but travelers should take precautions to minimize their exposure to the virus.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness that can cause fever, headache, and a characteristic rash. It is typically spread through close contact with an infected person or animal, and can be fatal in severe cases.
The Ugandan Ministry of Health has responded quickly to the outbreak, dispatching a rapid response team to Kasese District to monitor the situation and prevent further spread of the virus. The ministry has also advised citizens to take precautions, including avoiding close contact with sick individuals and washing hands frequently.
Travelers are advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. They should also avoid close contact with sick individuals, including those with a rash or skin lesions, and avoid touching wild animals or using products derived from them. Additionally, travelers should avoid eating or preparing meat from wild game, also known as bushmeat.
If travelers develop symptoms such as fever, headache, or a rash, they should seek medical attention immediately. If possible, they should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility and inform staff of their concerns.
The US government’s travel advisory is the latest in a series of measures taken to address the Mpox outbreak in Africa. The CDC has issued Level 2 Travel Health Notices for several countries in the region, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, and Cameroon.
American citizens traveling to or living in Uganda are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety and security updates about Uganda.
