During the commemoration of Martyrs’ Day at Namugongo sites, more than 50 individuals, among the over 1 million attendees, were hospitalized and referred to Mulago and Kiruddu hospitals due to various medical complications.
At least 45 of these pilgrims required urgent medical attention on Monday after collapsing at the Catholic shrine due to overcrowding. Additionally, three others were diagnosed with acute malaria and high blood pressure, as confirmed by medical authorities.
Over the course of last Wednesday to the present, medical teams from the Red Cross, Nebbi, and Mulago Hospital attended to over 1,000 pilgrims and referred at least 50 others to nearby hospitals for specialized treatment.
A variety of health issues were reported, including food poisoning, high blood pressure, acute malaria, and muscle strains, particularly prevalent among students unaccustomed to prolonged exposure to sunlight, according to Mr. Osbert Sserugo, the Manager of Red Cross in Wakiso District.
Dr. Joseph Mubira from Mulago, a team leader at the Namugongo Catholic shrine, noted complaints of stomach upsets and food poisoning among pilgrims. They treated over 160 individuals for these issues, alongside cases of red eyes and high blood pressure.
While most cases were addressed within the shrine’s tents, minor ailments were directed to the Zia Angelina Health Facility near the Catholic Church. However, critically ill patients were rushed to Mulago health unit for management.
During a visit to the hospital sites, it was observed that they were almost at full capacity, with Kenyan nationals mainly treated for heat-related problems at Zia Angelina Health Center.
This year’s hospitalization figures surpass last year’s, with over 50 pilgrims receiving medical attention compared to 30 reported cases last year.
