Health 14 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rainy Season Fuels Cough and Flu Outbreak in Uganda, Children Hit Hardest
Uganda faces a sharp rise in cough, flu, and fever cases as rains boost humidity and pathogen spread, with schoolchildren suffering the most in crowded settings. Health experts urge hygiene, early treatment, and avoiding self-medication to curb the seasonal surge. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cough-and-flu-surge-hits-uganda-as-rainy-season-triggers-disease-spike-5423784
The ongoing rainy season has sparked a wave of respiratory illnesses across Uganda, with families noting more frequent coughs, flu, and fevers. Children, particularly those in schools, are bearing the brunt due to close interactions and environmental factors.
Health Ministry Commissioner Dr. George Upenytho links the spike to misty air from rain-disturbed soil carrying viruses and bacteria. He also points to contaminated ripening fruits like mangoes causing bacterial fevers often confused with malaria.
Schools act as key hotspots. In day schools, community infections spread during play; in boarding ones, visitors introduce germs without screening. The Ministry promotes guidelines on handwashing, bathing, oral care, and clean sleeping areas.
Recent data from Makerere University Lung Institute shows Covid-19 lingering at 7.8% in Kampala patients with respiratory issues. Director Dr. Bruce Kirenga advises masks, vaccines, nutrition, and care for the elderly. Influenza peaks align with rains, per past studies detecting it in 10.4% of samples.
Experts like Dr. Daniel Tumwine warn against antibiotic self-treatment for viral cases, recommending rest, fluids, and professional checks to prevent pneumonia. Herbal remedies are used by some, but hygiene remains crucial.
Key prevention steps include regular handwashing, staying home when sick, masks, vaccination where possible, good nutrition, and early medical help.
Source: Daily Monitor