Health care providers in Lango are struggling to combat COVID-19 due to lack of medical equipment.
Most isolation centres are lacking basic medical necessities like gloves and face mask.
Dr Tonny Odung, the Alebtong District Health Officer, says that although the Ministry of Health provided medical supplies, health facilities in the area still face a shortage of equipment.
The same challenges are being experienced in Oyam District where Dr Thomas Malinga, the DHO says they are operating in a makeshift structure.
He says the District has managed to train only a few health workers who cannot manage the entire District in case there is a confirmed COVID-19 case.
In Lira District where 35 contacts of a Kenyan track driver who tested positive for the disease were isolated, the DHO, Dr Patrick Buchan Ocen says their biggest challenge is inadequate resources for managing the suspected cases and lack of cooperation from the community.
Meanwhile, in Otuke District where six people are under self- quarantine, Dr Robert Oremo, the DHO says they are yet to set up an isolation centre.
Last week, the Minister of Health Ruth Aceng said that Uganda will receive a consignment of vital medical equipment. The consignment will include; Personal Protective Equipment-PPE and testing equipment.
According to the health ministry, a total of 18,900 sample collection kits, 18,900 sample transport kits and 3,800 disposable medical gowns will be supplied. Others include 3,800 face shields, 36 thermometer guns and 15 ventilators.
The medical supplies were donated by the Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed and the Jack Ma Foundation Initiative.
The News Editor ,Reporter at Kagadi Kibaale community Radio
