EDITOR
Health authorities in Kisoro District have sounded an alarm over a rising number of tuberculosis (TB) cases, with more than 20 people testing positive during ongoing community screenings in several parishes.
Speaking to the media, District Health Educator Mubangizi Valentine urged residents to take part in immunization programs and other public health initiatives aimed at controlling the spread of communicable diseases. He emphasized the need for routine TB testing, particularly among adults, and encouraged those who test positive to seek early treatment to prevent further transmission.
At the same time, district leaders have issued a strong warning to individuals discouraging childhood immunization. Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Sebyara revealed that investigations by security and health teams had uncovered instances where some religious leaders were advising their followers against vaccinating children based on doctrinal beliefs.
Sebyara described such actions as dangerous, misleading, and unlawful, warning that anyone found obstructing immunization efforts or spreading misinformation would face arrest. He stressed that the government remains committed to safeguarding children’s lives and will not tolerate practices that put them at risk.
Echoing these concerns, Assistant District Health Officer in charge of immunization, Anet Dusabe, called on parents to strictly adhere to vaccination schedules. She underscored the critical role vaccines play in preventing life-threatening diseases, including polio and other childhood illnesses.
Dusabe further condemned the spread of misinformation, describing it as harmful and illegal, and urged communities to prioritize children’s health by embracing immunization services.
