The Outbreak of MPOX in Uganda

The Outbreak of MPOX in Uganda and its impact on tourism.

The outbreak of Mpox in Uganda is a great concern not only for the health sector but also for the tourism industry. By the end of October, the African Centres for Disease and Prevention (Africa CDC) stated that about 830 cases were recorded in 19 states. The Mpox case in Uganda was recorded on the 24th of July 2024 with the first case registered in Nakasongola Prison in Central Uganda.

Is there cause for alarm over the Mpox virus cases in Uganda?

No! There is no cause for alarm over the Mpox virus outbreak. Uganda is still safe and secure to travel for tourism and trade. All tourists, investors, and traders are welcome to Uganda –the Pearl of Africa to enjoy and appreciate what she has to offer the world. Everything is in full control of the situation thanks to the commitment from the Ministry of Health in Uganda and the team.

A good number of individuals have since recovered and others are receiving maximum care at the different isolation facilities.

List of districts in Uganda affected by MPOX.

The districts that have so far recorded Mpox in Uganda include Kampala, Masindi, Mukono, Mayuge, Nakasongola, Wakiso, Kasese, Nakaseke, Mbarara, Dokolo, Lwengo, Isingiro, Amuru, Kanungu, Namayingo, Mubende, Kalungu, Nebbi, Hoima City, Lira, Kabale, Gulu, and Tororo.

Treatment units with active admissions include Wakiso, Kasese, Isingiro, Kanungu, Buliisa, Mbarara, Dokolo, Nakasongola, and Adjumani. It is important to note that most of the affected districts with Mpox in Uganda are not tourism destinations or do not have tourist activities for visitors to engage in. This means that visitors safely travel and engage in their dream tourism activities, adventures, or experiences.

Is Uganda safe to visit amidst Mpox?

Uganda is safe and secure for tourists to explore. Generally, the risk of Mpox infection is low and besides, there is a strong track record in preventing and managing such public health issues. With a lot being done to contain the spread of Mpox, feel free to plan your next trip through the local tour operator. Dealing with the tour operator on the ground is advantageous in that you can always be kept updated with current travel advice and health guidelines.

How can one protect themselves from MPOX infection?

Ensure that you get vaccinated against Mpox before you set off to Uganda or any destination with Mpox infection. Note, Mpox is treatable and can take 2-4 weeks.
When you realize or think that you have Mpox or have signs and symptoms, you are advised to stay back home and as soon as possible let the community health worker –CHW. Alternatively, you can contact the Ministry of Health toll-free line 0800100066. You can also send an SMS to U-Report at 8500.
Do not eat infected animals like squirrels, monkeys, rats, or mice. Mpox spreads from animals to human beings.
Respect the set standard operating procedures –SOPs. All guests on a safari in Uganda are encouraged to wash your hands regularly using soap and clean water or use an alcohol-based hand rub. The contaminated surfaces should be regularly cleaned.
Create awareness without necessarily scaring people. Instead, you can encourage those affected to seek health or medical care.
Avoid shaking hands, kissing, pecking, or hugging.
At all costs, avoid any physical or intimate contact with others, especially if you are infected with Mpox.
When in the recovery phase from Mpox, consider practicing safe sex including using condoms for about 3 months. WHO recommends the use of condoms for 12 weeks for all persons recovering from MPOX?
Do not share towels, linen/personal care items with others.

Safety measures Uganda Ministry of Health has put in place to prevent spread of MPOX.

Considering the ever-escalating Mpox infection, the Ministry of Health in Uganda, the World Health Organization, plus other partners have held many briefing sessions, agencies, and heads of diplomatic missions that have provided an overview of the escalating Mpox in Uganda and the region.
Cross-border surveillance at the various entry points has been strengthened.
Health workers and the general public have been extensively sensitized.
The Ministry of Health has partnered with communities, national health authorities, and international organizations to combat the Mpox. Combating the Mpox epidemic is a collective effort and through such collaborations, surveillance is enhanced and in the long run, preventive safety measures are strengthened and there can be effective response strategies.
Above all, Uganda has had extensive experience and expertise when it comes to handling cases related to outbreaks of infectious diseases such as Mpox.
Even border countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda have safety measures set to ensure visitors enjoy a safe and secure holiday.

How does MPOX spread?

Mpox spreads after individuals get in close contact with infected animals. This can be through scratches, animal bites, bodily feces, or consuming meat not properly cooked.

Unlike the past, the current Mpox outbreak spreads differently including touching/sharing items, especially bedding and clothing of the infected persons. It also spreads through the respiratory droplets produced as a result of sneezing/coughing.

Mpox is also transmitted from mother to fetus through the placenta. Lastly, it spreads when you get in contact during and after birth as well as through sexual intercourse.

Signs and Symptoms for Mpox.

The known signs and symptoms of Mpox include rash, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headache, fever, chills, respiratory symptoms, exhaustion, back pain, and muscle aches.

Conclusively, Uganda is still safe, secure, and open for all tourists to unearth her natural wonders. Plan and book your trip with confidence through our expert and start your journey to unearth the wonders in the pearl of Africa.

Sándor Jakubinyi

14:31 22 Feb 24

2019 megigazulás

12:45 21 Feb 24

We went on a two-week trip with my family, organised by Coleb from Standard Safaris.

I had my concerns about organised trips, but this one didn’t justify any of those. Everything went very smoothly, even when some problems arose with one of the cars it got fixed by next morning, the accomodations were clean and comfortable, the programs were exciting and well-balanced - everything was done to a truly high standard.

If you plan to visit Uganda and are looking for a guide, I warmly recommend Coleb and his team. In case you have a choice of drivers, go for Godwin, his presence made this trip even more enjoyable - cheerful, helpful, good sense of humour, generally a great person. Just look for the guy with a big smile and big heart:)

Bert Simoens

09:38 08 Jan 24

We recently embarked on a safari adventure with Standard Safaris in Uganda, which was truly exceptional. Our guide, Yonah, was outstanding - his kindness, knowledge, and discretion significantly enhanced our experience. He was the heart of our trip.

The local company's planning was offering a tailor-made journey that matched our interests. We saw an array of wildlife in Murchison, enjoyed rafting at Jinja, and experienced mountain biking at Sipi. A visit to Kidepo National Park was a highlight and comes highly recommended.

The vehicle provided was comfortable and reliable. We highly recommend Standard Safaris for anyone seeking an unforgettable safari in Uganda. Their professionalism and the exceptional guidance of staff like Yonah make them an great choice.

Michał Kostrzewa

00:41 15 Nov 23

We are all extremely grateful Standard Safaris for an incredible East Africa experience. I recently booked a custom trip for group of 8 people, including an 8-year-old boy, from Kampala through Queen Elizabeth National Park and on to Rwanda and Burundi. Coleb delivered on everything that was discussed and agreed upon beforehand.

The car provided was in great condition and our driver Meddy went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable, informed, and had the best possible time. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. All local services were inlcuded in (reasonable) price that we agreed, so there was no need to worry about payments during the 6 day trip. Also Standard Safaris agreed took care about safety and security by helping us organize armed ranger while in the park.

The whole trip was hassle-free and smooth. We saw amazing wildlife in Queen Elizabeth NP, took in the sights of Rwanda and Burundi, and made lifelong memories.

I would happily book with Standard Safaris again in a heartbeat and recommend them wholeheartedly to anyone looking for the best East Africa trip. They provide top-notch service while ensuring you have an incredible, customized experience. If you want a hassle-free, flawlessly organized African adventure, Standard Safaris is the tour operator to book with.

Ivan Nammanda

18:31 27 Oct 23

Very organized travel operator who chose awesome guide to make our trip wonderful.

We booked a nine days trip with Standard Safaris and all was perfect from start to finish. Coleb was very prompt at replying and easy to liaise with ahead of the trip. We had done a lot of research and had an itinerary in mind and Coleb helped us to put everything together to make this happen for a very reasonable price.  On the trip we had a private vehicle for the whole tour which was exactly what we wanted. Bryan was our driver and an amazing guide - really friendly and knowledgable, working hard to find the things that we wanted to see and quickly understanding what was of interest to us/how much information to give.

Would highly recommend a trip to Uganda with Standard Safaris. We are definitely coming back soon!

MUGAIGA KENNETH

18:01 27 Oct 23

The company has very courteous tour guides with wide knowledge of fauna and frola in the whole of East Africa.
The choice of safari Lodges is good with first class treatment.
Game drive security is assured.
Almost The whole of September I was traversing through DRC, Uganda,and Rwanda on a gorilla tour and wildlife expedition.
Everything was arranged and booked perfectly by Standard Safaris.
The owner, Coleb was always helpful whenever we needed to ask questions about this gorilla safari in Uganda and beyond.
It was a complex expedition but Standard safaris and Coleb made it look amazingly easy.
I’ll recommend Standard safaris 200%, for all gorilla safaris in Uganda, Rwanda and wildlife tours in east africa.

travel uganda

16:35 27 Oct 23

This is so far the best gorilla trekking company in Uganda, and africa, by far. I had a wonderful time with Standard Safaris as a solo traveler.
My guide was excellent and our safari planner, Coleb was quick with responses and the prices were very friendly.
I’ll definitely book with Standard safaris on my next gorilla tour in Rwanda and Uganda.