MPOX TRACKER

Uganda’s mpox outbreak has spotlighted the critical need for inclusive public health responses, particularly for Key Populations (KPs) such as sex workers, who face compounded vulnerabilities due to stigma, discrimination, and limited healthcare access. Recognizing these challenges, the World Health Organization (WHO) partnered with MARPI Clinic Mulago to implement a comprehensive surveillance and response strategy tailored to KPs.

Central to this approach was community empowerment through education and peer engagement. WHO and MARPI trained 40 staff members in mpox surveillance and care, equipped 40 civil society organization managers to mobilize resources, and educated 150 community peers to recognize symptoms and connect individuals with care. These peers, trusted within their communities, became vital conduits for identifying suspected cases and promoting timely treatment.

The impact of this initiative has been profound. Stories like Tracy’s, a sex worker in Kawempe who overcame fear and stigma to seek care through MARPI, highlight how trust-building efforts save lives. Community peers like Kyomugisha Ruth used tools such as WhatsApp posters to spread awareness, identify cases, and facilitate care, creating a ripple effect of lifesaving support. Testimonials from bar attendants and other KPs demonstrate how this peer-driven model fosters a sense of security and reduces healthcare avoidance.

This collaboration underscores the importance of trust, inclusivity, and community engagement in effective public health strategies. By bridging gaps between vulnerable populations and critical healthcare services, Uganda’s response has not only improved mpox surveillance and care but also set a precedent for addressing public health crises sustainably. The WHO-MARPI partnership serves as a global model, demonstrating that marginalized groups can be reached and protected when innovation and inclusivity drive public health responses.