Amolatar bans kissing as an Ebola control measure

Amolatar district is on high alert following a severe warning that the area faces a high risk of an Ebola outbreak linked to cross-border fish trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Local authorities have suspended major public gatherings and urged the public to immediately stop shaking hands, hugging, and kissing to prevent the potential transmission of the virus.

District Health Officer Jimmy Odongo issued the alert during the inaugural Ebola taskforce meeting, chaired by Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Obonyo Magwar.

Odongo revealed that traders are collecting dried fish, locally known as bambala, from Amolatar and transporting it directly into Congo.

This active trade route drastically elevates the risk of importing the virus back into the community.

Officials also noted that the busy Namasale ferry acts as a global gateway, moving diverse populations through the district daily and rendering Amolatar exceptionally vulnerable.

In response to the threat, Deputy RDC Obonyo Magwar announced strict compliance measures, urging religious leaders to guide cto follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) strictlyedures (SOPs).

He added that large gatherings face cancellation. Authorities referenced the postponement of Martyrs’ Day and explicitly warned local Arsenal football fans to halt planned trophy celebrations.

As schools continue to reopen, Commissioner Obonyo advises management to enforce SOPs, including the mandatory purchase of temperature guns and hand sanitisers.

District Surveillance Focal Person Douglas Otim admitted that Amolatar critically lacks personal protective equipment (PPE). He issued an urgent appeal to well-wishers and partners for medical supplies to help manage a potential outbreak.

To boost readiness, James Odongo, representing the Chief Administrative Officer, directed that Ebola task forces be established at the sub-county level.

He also ordered all district departmental offices to immediately install handwashing stations at their entrances.

Local fishermen are pleading for clear safety guidelines so they do not lose their livelihoods.

Enaso Edmond, a fisherman from Kayago, confirmed that Congolese nationals are already inside Namasale, while others are actively moving back and forth with fish cargo.

Edmond called for immediate, rigorous health screening at all borders and docking sites.

Concluding the emergency meeting, the Amolatar district chairperson ordered the immediate reinforcement of SOPs at the Namasale ferry crossing to prevent a health catastrophe.