Typhoid Fever in Uganda
23 Feb 2015
The Ministry of Health for Uganda and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) have issued a Press Statement declaring an outbreak of typhoid fever in Kampala, including areas of neighbouring districts, Wakiso and Mukono.
The first suspected case of typhoid fever was identified on 6th February 2015, as of 19 February a total of 142 suspected cases are under investigation. All divisions in KCCA except Nakawa have reported a case.
The majority of suspected cases are men aged between 20-29 years, working in downtown Kampala and surrounding areas in the central business area.
Eight cases have been laboratory confirmed as typhoid, with laboratory results awaited for several other suspected cases. There have been two deaths as a result of this outbreak and a further eleven deaths are under investigation.
The source of the outbreak is thought to be a contaminated drinking water supply around the affected areas. Investigations are ongoing to locate the exact source of infection.
Advice for Travellers
Typhoid vaccine is usually recommended for all travellers to Uganda. Travellers should also maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and safe food and water whilst in Uganda.