UTI Cases Rise in Bukedea and Teso Sub-region as Leaders Plan Second Medical Camp

By Skika Reporter.

Leaders in Bukedea District and across the Teso sub-region have raised concern over the increasing number of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), with plans underway to organize a second medical camp to address the growing health crisis.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Bukedea County Member of Parliament David Okwere in collaboration with the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among.

Okwere revealed this development during the closing ceremony of a three-day eye camp held at Bukedea Teaching Hospital. The camp was organized by the Ruparelia Group and hosted by Speaker Among, who also welcomed the Iteso cultural leader, Emorimor Paul Sande Etomeileng, on Sunday.

Speaking at the event, Okwere said discussions with Sudhir Ruparelia, the chairperson of the Ruparelia Group, highlighted alarming health trends in the region.

“When we began discussing issues concerning medical attention, we discovered that many of our people in Teso are experiencing a high rate of UTI infections, largely due to poor hygiene,” Okwere noted.

According to Okwere, the spread of UTIs has been linked to poor sanitation practices, particularly in latrines, toilets, and bathrooms, affecting both adults and children.

He further pointed out that limited access to disinfectants in medical facilities across the Teso sub-region has worsened the situation, leading to rapid infection rates and low public awareness about prevention and early treatment.

Okwere expressed concern over rising death rates in Bukedea District, citing frequent burials as a worrying indicator.

“In a day, we attend around 10 burials. Having followed medical histories, many of these deaths are associated with UTIs, which people often take for granted instead of seeking early treatment at nearby health facilities,” he said.

In response, leaders are planning a second medical camp focused specifically on screening and treating UTI patients in Bukedea and neighboring districts within the Teso sub-region. Okwere believes the turnout could surpass that of the recently concluded eye camp.

He emphasized that Bukedea is not alone in facing this challenge, noting that other districts across Teso are experiencing similar trends, particularly in relation to rising mortality rates.

Okwere concluded by urging communities to prioritize personal and environmental hygiene.

“People must be mindful of maintaining hygiene. Prevention begins with each one of us,” he said.