Uganda intensifies efforts to contain typhoid outbreak

KAMPALA - Ugandan health authorities said Wednesday that they have intensified efforts against the deadly typhoid outbreak in the capital and two central districts.

As of Monday 513 cases fitting the case definition had been identified in Kampala and in Wakiso and Mukono districts, the Health Ministry said in a statement, adding that two people have been killed and 11 other deaths are being investigated.

"Investigations are still ongoing, but so far the disease has been isolated from nine of the patients who have been investigated. The death toll on the outbreak still stands at two people as no more people diagnosed with the disease have died," said the statement.

It added that the ministry continues to offer treatment and follow-up measures for all those affected and infected by the disease.

"The patients have responded positively to the Ceftriaxone and Ciprofloxacin treatment being administered to them, raising hope that the outbreak would be contained into a short time," it said.

The statement said that Kampala Capital City Authority and Ministry of Health officials have engaged food vendors and juice sellers, helping them improve hygiene practices to prevent further spread of the disease.

"The public is advised to avoid eating cold foods, vegetables, fruits and drink safe water from reliable sources," the statement said.

"The Ministry of Health calls upon the public, especially those in the central Kampala business area, to stay calm as all possible measures are being undertaken to contain the outbreak," it added.

According to expert information on typhoid, most people show symptoms one to three weeks after exposure. The symptoms are fever, headaches, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, poor appetite, lethargy and delirium.

The disease is transmitted through eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with faeces.