NELSON K
Fear and sorrow have gripped Rwanja West parish in Rurehe Subcounty, Mitooma District, following the suspected outbreak of an unknown disease that has claimed the lives of two infants in the area and a third in Greater Bushenyi.
According to the LC2 Chairperson of Rwanja West, Mr. Barigye Augustine, the disease—believed to have symptoms similar to pneumonia—has been rapidly affecting infants, with each case resulting in death within three to four days. He confirmed that grieving parents, including Maxima Karuhanga of Kabungo Cell and Daphne Natukwasa of Rwanja Cell, reported seeking treatment from multiple health facilities, but their children succumbed despite medical efforts.
“It is a very painful situation. Even after visiting various hospitals, doctors could not determine the exact illness. They only suspected pneumonia,” said Mr. Barigye, calling on government and health authorities to urgently investigate the matter and carry out tests in the affected areas to prevent further loss of life.
Daphne Natukwasa narrated the ordeal of losing her one-and-a-half-year-old child. After noticing signs of illness, she sought help at Rusheshe Health Centre III in Buhunga Subcounty, Rukungiri District. Though her child was suspected to have pneumonia and was given medicine, the condition worsened. She was later referred to Buhunga Health Centre IV, and finally Doctors Case Clinic in Rukungiri town, where her baby passed away despite receiving treatment.
In reaction to the situation, Rurehe Subcounty District Councillor Hon. Ambrose Rwekariika expressed concern, noting he had not been informed about the outbreak but promised to launch investigations in collaboration with health officers and other local leaders. He applauded Boona Radio for raising awareness and serving as the voice for affected communities.
Mitooma District Health Officer Dr. Sadic Byamugisha also acknowledged being unaware of the outbreak but pledged immediate investigation and testing to identify the disease and implement appropriate interventions.
