Uganda faces another critical public health challenge as MPOX (monkeypox) sweeps across the nation, with 2,896 confirmed cases and 19 deaths as of February 2025. This latest challenge tests the nation’s resilience and public health infrastructure, but also showcases the valuable lessons learned from previous epidemics.
The current outbreak has spread across multiple districts, but Nakasongola and Kampala districts (especially in Kawempe and Makindye divisions) are among the worst affected and this demonstrates the persistent vulnerability of urban centers to infectious diseases. The World Health Organization’s declaration of MPOX as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern underscores the gravity of the situation. Commercial sex workers and frequent travelers have emerged as primary vectors in the virus’s spread, highlighting the need for targeted intervention strategies.
Uganda’s extensive experience with epidemic management, including multiple Ebola outbreaks since 2000, COVID-19, and various other infectious diseases, has created a robust foundation for handling such crises. In particular, Uganda has had several Ebola Virus Disease outbreaks in 2000, 2014, 2017, 2018 and recently 2022. The country has also had outbreaks of yellow fever, Marburg, measles and was not spared by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. These outbreaks have tested and strengthened the country’s preparedness and response systems and also given health workers enormous experience in dealing with deadly outbreaks. Specifically, the nation’s surveillance systems, particularly its community-based detection programs, have proven instrumental in containing previous outbreaks. These same systems must now be reinforced and adapted to combat MPOX effectively.
The COVID-19 pandemic taught valuable lessons about the critical importance of transparent communication and public engagement. Uganda’s success in managing previous health crises largely stemmed from strategic media campaigns and community outreach programs that built public trust and compliance. Similar communication strategies must now be deployed to educate the public about MPOX symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods.
However, significant challenges remain. With only two designated isolation centers at Mulago and Entebbe hospitals, Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure requires immediate expansion to handle a potential escalation of cases. The Ministry of Health must prioritize increasing medical personnel training, ensuring adequate PPE supplies, and enhancing diagnostic capabilities, particularly in remote areas.
Drawing from its experience with Ebola and COVID-19, Uganda’s implementation of rapid response teams and strict containment measures has proven effective. These strategies, including isolation protocols and contact tracing, must be swiftly adapted to address the unique characteristics of MPOX transmission. As Uganda faces this latest public health challenge, the nation’s track record in managing epidemics provides a blueprint for success. By leveraging past experiences while addressing current infrastructure gaps, Uganda can effectively combat MPOX and continue strengthening its public health resilience for future challenges.