In a bid to safeguard its population against the mosquito-borne disease, Uganda has launched a nationwide yellow fever vaccination campaign. According to Dr. Michael Baganizi, an official in charge of immunization at the health ministry, 12.2 million out of the targeted 14 million people have already received the vaccine by the end of April.

To further ensure public safety, Uganda has made it a mandatory requirement for all travelers entering or leaving the country to possess a yellow fever vaccination card. This decision, in line with international health regulations, aims to encourage more people to get vaccinated, addressing the growing concern of vaccine hesitancy within the country's healthcare system.

The single-dose vaccine, which has been provided free of charge, is available for Ugandans between the ages of 1 and 60. Vaccination centers have been set up in various locations, including schools, universities, hospitals, and local government units. Previously, citizens would have to pay $27 at private clinics to receive the yellow fever shot.

Yellow fever remains a significant threat in Uganda, with the country categorized as one of the 27 high-risk countries on the African continent. The World Health Organization reports approximately 200,000 cases and 30,000 fatalities globally each year due to yellow fever. Earlier this year, Uganda experienced an outbreak in the central districts of Buikwe and Buvuma.

Through this nationwide vaccination campaign, the Ugandan government aims to curtail the transmission of yellow fever and protect its population from the devastating impact of the disease.