Measles outbreak affects 20 districts as health ministry plans nationwide vaccination drive
Health authorities have urged parents and caregivers to ensure children are vaccinated on time and to seek medical attention early in case of symptoms, as efforts continue to control the outbreak and prevent further deaths.
Uganda is grappling with a measles outbreak that has so far affected 20 districts, according to the Ministry of Health. The update was provided this morning by the Director General of Health Services, Dr. Charles Olaro, during a media briefing on the current situation.
Dr. Olaro said the outbreak has largely been driven by children missing the recommended two doses of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, delays in seeking medical care, and underlying health conditions such as malnutrition.
He noted that children under the age of five account for about 75% of all reported cases, underscoring their heightened vulnerability to the disease.
The affected districts include Bulambuli, Kassanda, Amolatar, Kibaale, Nwoya, Karenga, Amuru, Agago, Kagadi, Kiboga, Kyegegwa, Kaabong, Kotido, Kween, Lira District, Sembabule, Kikuube, Gulu District, Kazo, Mubende, and Adjumani.
The Ministry also confirmed 12 measles-related deaths, reported in Kagadi, Kikuube, Adjumani, Bulambuli, and Karenga.
Dr. Olaro said the Ministry of Health is currently responding through targeted vaccination campaigns in affected districts, intensified disease surveillance, and other public health interventions aimed at containing further spread.
He added that Uganda will roll out a nationwide Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign from 1–5 October 2026. The campaign will target all children aged 9 to 59 months across the country, including those in refugee settlements, regardless of their previous vaccination status.
Health authorities have urged parents and caregivers to ensure children are vaccinated on time and to seek medical attention early in case of symptoms, as efforts continue to control the outbreak and prevent further deaths.
