JCRC project trained hundreds to combat mpox in Uganda
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The Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) completed a year-long project in Kampala and Wakiso districts, Uganda, to prevent and control mpox.
JCRC worked with the Ministry of Health, Kampala Capital City Authority, and Wakiso District Local Government to train 449 frontline personnel. These included 201 health workers and 248 Village Health Team members who expanded surveillance within their communities.
The project vaccinated 400 people in areas with high mpox transmission rates, specifically 300 in Kawempe Division, Kampala, and 100 in Kiira Municipality, Wakiso District. Beyond medical intervention, JCRC provided support to people recovering from mpox, offering counselling to over 150 survivors and vocational training in soap production to 100 others to help them rebuild their livelihoods. During the project, teams screened 774 suspected mpox cases, confirming 265 through laboratory tests.
All confirmed cases received treatment and were discharged without any deaths. JCRC leaders emphasized that effective epidemic preparedness requires investment in strong health systems, community empowerment, and ongoing support for survivors, not just responding to outbreaks as they occur. The organization advocates for continued funding to maintain these interventions and improve Uganda's readiness for future health emergencies.
