By Moses Lokeris
In response to a recent measles outbreak, Napak District health department has embarked on a comprehensive vaccination campaign targeting children aged 0-5 years.
The outbreak was confirmed by the ministry of health on November 19, 2025, after a suspected measles case was admitted in the children’s ward at Matany Hospital on November 15, 2025.
Records from the office of District Health Officer (DHO) indicate that 11 children have so far died, with accumulative 86 cases reported, since the disease outbreak.
The most hit sub-counties are Lopeei, Matany town council, Lokopo, Iriiri, Lotem, Longoriet, Apeitolim, Nabwali, and Lorengechora.
Dr. Charles Kakuhikire Nuwagaba, the District Health Officer Napak, said that the district is currently carrying out an immunization drive across all the 10 sub-counties and four town councils.
He explained that the immunization drive which started on Friday, December 5, 2025, aims to curtail transmission, bridge immunity gaps, and safeguard public health in the region.
Dr. Kakuhikire added that they have set up numerous outreach posts in both rural and urban areas, ensuring access to these vital services and making it easier for families to vaccinate their children.
“All children within the specified age group are eligible for the measles vaccine, regardless of their previous vaccination status. This inclusive approach seeks to maximize population immunity and prevent future outbreaks”, said Dr Kakuhikire.
In addition to vaccination efforts, Martine Nangiro, the Napak District Health Educator said that surveillance measures have been bolstered to detect and respond swiftly to any potential cases.
“Active case-finding strategies are being employed both within health facilities and communities to identify and isolate affected individuals promptly”, Nangiro explained.
Assumpta Natyang, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of maternal health urged the parent to embrace the immunization of children against six killer and preventable diseases
The six killer diseases include; Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Polio, Measles, and Tuberculosis.
She said that most of the affected children didn’t complete immunization dosages.
“We appeal to parents and guardians to drop any negative attitudes they may hold towards immunisation because it is safe, effective, and lifesaving”, Natyang advised.
She emphasised that no child should miss a vaccine due to misinformation or hesitation, urging community leaders and health workers to help in sensitising the public.
Facts About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness causing fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body, preventable by the MMR vaccine.
It spread through airborne droplets from coughing/sneezing, it’s very infectious, and while usually mild it can cause severe complications like pneumonia, blindness, or brain inflammation, even death, especially in young children.
Measles has no specific antiviral treatment, care focuses on managing symptoms (fever reducers). Vaccination is the best prevention, often given as MMR.
