The Director General of Health Services for Uganda's Ministry of Health, Dr. Olaro Charles, addressed the media this morning on the current status of the measles outbreak in the country, reporting that as of April 2026, 20 districts have been affected. The outbreak has largely been attributed to children not receiving the required two doses of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, delays in seeking medical care, and underlying health conditions such as malnutrition. According to the Ministry, 75% of the affected individuals are children under the age of five, highlighting the severe impact of the disease on young and vulnerable populations.

The affected districts include Bulambuli, Kassanda, Amolatar, Kibaale, Nwoya, Karenga, Amuru, Agago, Kagadi, Kiboga, Kyegegwa, Kaabong, Kotido, Kween, Lira District, Sembabule, Kikuube, Gulu District, Kazo, Mubende, and Adjumani. Health authorities confirmed a total of 12 measles-related deaths reported in Kagadi, Kikuube, Adjumani, Bulambuli, and Karenga, underscoring the seriousness of the outbreak in multiple regions.

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has intensified efforts including targeted vaccination campaigns in the affected districts and strengthened disease surveillance systems to control further spread. The Ministry emphasized the importance of timely immunization and early healthcare seeking to prevent complications and deaths associated with measles.

Additionally, the Ministry announced a nationwide Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign scheduled to take place from 1st to 5th October 2026. The campaign aims to vaccinate all children aged 9 to 59 months across the country, including those in refugee communities. Health officials stated that the campaign will target all children regardless of their previous measles-rubella vaccination status, in an effort to close immunity gaps and prevent future outbreaks.