By Esther Gune

Panic and concern have emerged in Adjumani District following a confirmed measles outbreak in Apaa Itirikwa Sub-county, where health authorities have recorded 30 laboratory-confirmed cases and two deaths, prompting urgent discussions during the District Task Force meeting as officials warn of a possible rapid spread of the highly contagious disease if immediate containment measures are not strengthened.

District leaders say the outbreak has created tension within the health department as teams intensify surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and community sensitization efforts to contain the disease, especially among vulnerable children in hard-to-reach areas.

The Resident District Commissioner, Tako Swaib, confirmed the outbreak and urged residents to embrace immunization despite ongoing border disputes affecting the area.

“We have confirmed a measles outbreak in Apaa Itirikwa Sub-county, and I encourage all residents to take their children for vaccination to protect the community. Despite the border disputes in the area, health services will continue to ensure the outbreak is contained,” Swaib said.

Health officials attributed the outbreak mainly to low vaccination coverage in the affected communities. The District Surveillance Focal Person, Olony Paul, revealed that a significant number of those infected had not received routine immunization.

“The major cause of this measles outbreak is low vaccination coverage. About 65% of the 32 affected individuals were not vaccinated, and the ongoing border disputes have also interfered with immunization activities and access to health services,” Olony explained.

According to health authorities, population movements and limited access to health facilities due to insecurity linked to border disagreements have made it difficult for health workers to conduct routine vaccination outreach programs.

The Medical Superintendent of Adjumani District, Ambaku Michael, said the situation highlights the need for joint intervention between neighbouring districts to effectively manage disease outbreaks in border communities.

“All these results are largely due to the ongoing border disputes, which have affected health service delivery and vaccination efforts. There is a need for close collaboration between Adjumani District and Amuru District to effectively control and prevent further spread of the outbreak,” Ambaku said.

District health teams have since heightened surveillance, community screening, and immunization campaigns while urging parents and guardians to ensure children receive measles vaccines to prevent further infections.

Health authorities warn that measles remains highly contagious but preventable through vaccination, calling on communities to cooperate with health workers as response efforts continue across affected areas.

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