Mysterious ‘Dancing Disease’ Outbreak Hits Uganda’s Bundibugyo

Summary:

• A mysterious illness called “Dinga Dinga” is affecting over 300 people, mainly women and girls, in Uganda’s Bundibugyo District. The disease causes fever and uncontrollable shaking, making movement difficult. Health authorities are investigating the outbreak, with patients typically recovering after treatment. No deaths have been reported, and officials urge locals to seek medical care rather than rely on herbal remedies.

A mysterious illness, locally known as “Dinga Dinga” or “shaking like dancing,” is affecting over 300 individuals, mostly women and girls, in Uganda’s Bundibugyo District. The disease, which was first reported earlier this year, is characterized by fever and uncontrollable body shaking, making movement difficult. While most cases resolve within a week, some patients have sought treatment at Bundibugyo General Hospital.

Health authorities are investigating the outbreak, with samples sent to the Ministry of Health for analysis. Dr. Kiyita Christopher, the District Health Officer, confirmed that no cases have been reported in neighboring districts. He also assured that the illness is generally manageable with antibiotic treatment, administered by village health teams, and no deaths have been reported.

Dr. Kiyita emphasized that herbal medicine has not been proven to treat the disease and urged locals to seek medical attention from health facilities. “Patients typically recover within a week with proper treatment,” he stated.

One affected individual, 18-year-old Patience Katusiime, shared her experience: “I felt weak and paralyzed, with my body shaking uncontrollably when I tried to walk. It was very distressing, but after treatment at Bundibugyo Hospital, I am now feeling better.”

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