Rising STI Cases Alarm Health Officials in Mayuge District

Health workers in Mayuge District are concerned over persistent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with a one-week medical camp treating more than 300 cases. Infections like HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia continue to surface at facilities, often with patients arriving late and facing complications.

District Health Officer Dr. Asuman Basembeza highlighted risky behaviours, poor hygiene, stigma, and self-medication as key drivers, especially in rural areas. He noted that fear of testing delays diagnosis, worsening outcomes.

A patient from Buwaaya Sub County shared her struggle with recurring symptoms due to unaware solo treatment, learning only later that partners must be treated together. Health staff emphasise completing medication as couples and using free services.

The camp, run by Mayuge District Local Government with Team Broken Earth (Canada) and Save Young Mothers Uganda, offered STI care, antenatal services, and screenings. Chief Operations Officer Michelle Murphy reported most cases among women, but more men are now seeking help.

Experts warn that asymptomatic men unknowingly spread infections, stressing partner treatment, condom use during therapy, and normalising testing. Dr. Kelly Monaghan observed women with years of untreated symptoms leading to infertility and chronic pain.

To fight this, Village Health Teams are sensitising communities, integrating STI services into routine care like antenatal visits. Officials call for responsible behaviour, fewer partners, and hygiene to prevent transmission.

This situation aligns with national data showing high STI rates among youth and high-risk groups, per Uganda health surveys and WHO reports.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)