Uganda is one of the countries with highest rates of the meningitis A disease and also one of the 26 countries that lie within the extended meningitis belt of Sub-Saharan Africa, stretching from Senegal in the West to Ethiopia in the East. In Uganda, the most susceptible regions include West Nile, parts of Bunyoro, Acholi and Lango regions, Teso and Karamoja.
Though treatable, the disease can best be prevented through immunisation. The Ministry of Health with support from World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners have planned to conduct free Mass Immunization Campaign in the high risk 39 districts in Uganda to prevent any outbreak starting on 19th January to 23rd January 2017 for all persons aged between 1 year and 29 years.
The areas in which this immunisation exercise will be carried out for the next two weeks will be; Arua, Zombo, Koboko, Adjumani, Nebbi, Maracha, Moyo, Yumbe, Gulu, Amuru, Kitgum, Lamwo, Nwoya, Pader, Agago, Omoro, Dokolo, Lira, Alebtong, Kole, Otuke, Amolatar, Apac, Oyam, Hoima, Masindi, Buliisa, Kiryadongo, Amuria, Kaberamaido, Katakwi, Soroti, Abim, Amudat, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, Nakapiripiriti, and Napak.
The immunisation campaign was officially launched in Omoro district at Lalogi Grounds on Tuesday 17th January, with the Minister of Health Dr. Jane Acheng. The Ministry of Health and partners have deployed Medical personnel across the affected districts to oversee the success of the immunisation exercise.
All persons and care givers are advised to go to the nearest health centres and other outreach immunisation posts in their districts for the the free vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective and has been approved by the World Health Organisation. The vaccine will be administered by a trained health worker using a single injection on the upper arm.