Health officials alarmed by high UTI, malaria rates in Kapelebyong

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Malaria and urinary tract infections (UTIs) were the most commonly diagnosed conditions during a free medical camp held at Atutur-Acowa Primary School in Kapelebyong district on Monday, July 14.

The camp, which attracted over 1,000 people, recorded 350 cases of malaria and 150 women testing positive for UTIs.

A nurse immunizing a baby during the medical camp held in Kapelebyong district on Monday. (Photo by Godfrfey Ojore)

Diarrhoea and hypertension followed closely, in what medical professionals described as a serious issue requiring the public to prioritise regular medical check-ups.

Francis Oumo, a nursing officer at Akoromit Health Centre III, attributed the high incidence of malaria to poor use of mosquito nets and the presence of untrimmed bushes around homesteads, which provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Francis Oumo a nursing officer at Akoromit Health Centre III speaking to the New Vision during the medical camp held in Atutur-Acowa primary school in Kapelebyong district. (Photo by Godfrfey Ojore)

Regarding the surge in UTIs, he cited poor hygiene practices, especially among women, as a contributing factor.

“UTIs are mostly caused by poor hygiene. Clothes should be washed and dried regularly. Many people are unaware, and that is why the rate is high. If left untreated, UTIs not only deteriorate one’s health but also lead to increased healthcare costs and even loss of life,” Oumo said.

He further explained that the frequent use of antibiotics to treat such infections can lead to drug resistance, thereby endangering lives.

Anatase Tino, 75, was diagnosed with hypertension for the first time and was immediately enrolled for treatment. She expressed gratitude to the medical team for detecting her condition early, noting that many people her age have died due to late-stage detection.

A nurse palpating an expectant mother during the medical camp in Kapelebyong district. (Photo by Godfrey Ojore)

Oumo noted that hypertension often shows no symptoms and can only be detected through routine check-ups, something many people neglect.

The medical camp was organised by ChildFund in collaboration with Partners for Children Worldwide and the government.

A wide range of free health services was provided, including general check-ups, child immunisation, health education sessions, cancer screening, referrals for specialised care, HIV testing and counselling, antenatal care, nutrition counselling, and deworming for children.

George Masuba, programme manager at Partners for Children Worldwide, said the camp placed special focus on children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly.

A medical worker deworming children of Atutur Acowa primary school during the medical camp. (Photo by Godfrey Ojore)

“We are committed to advancing the health and well-being of children and their families. Through partnerships with government and other stakeholders, we strive to bring lifesaving services closer to communities that need them most,” Masuba noted.

Eighteen-year-old Imerit Lucy, who is expecting her first child, received antenatal care, saving her from walking 9km to Acowa Health Centre III.

Stella Among, 30, a resident of Tukum village in Acowa, and a mother of six, also benefited from the distribution of mosquito nets.

Cecilia Okoth, senior communications officer at ChildFund Uganda, noted that poor health, particularly among children under five, remains a major concern. She added that ChildFund Uganda’s approach to healthcare is community-led and child-focused.