Despite efforts by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Ministry of health, the Mpox vaccination uptake has remained low.
Speaking at a media café organized by the African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET) at Femwrite offices in Kamwokya, Dr. Misaki Wayengera, the Ministry of Health’s chief scientist, urged the public to take the disease seriously and get vaccinated.
“We have vaccines available, but people are not showing interest in taking them. This puts communities at risk,” Dr. Wayengera warned.
He noted that sex workers are among the most groups at risk due to the nature of their work and emphasized the importance of caution when engaging in intimate activities.
“People should avoid being intimate with individuals whose health status they are unsure of. Prevention remains key,” he added.
Uganda has launched several phases of Mpox vaccination campaigns to curb the rising number of cases.
The initial phase targeted high-risk populations in Kampala, including those engaged in commercial sex work, bar attendants, and drivers.
Uganda has received additional doses of Mpox vaccines from various sources, including the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the European Union.
Mpox, a viral zoonotic disease, can spread through close physical contact with an infected person.
Dr. Wayengera called on the media to play a role in raising awareness and combating misinformation about the disease and the vaccine.
