By Flavia Ajok
Authorities in Buliisa District have suspended the operation of weekly markets as part of measures to prevent the spread of Ebola.
The resolution was reached on Tuesday during the District Ebola Taskforce meeting held at the district headquarters.
Speaking to our reporter after the meeting, Longino Bahebwa Byagagaire, the Resident District Commissioner and Chairperson of the District Ebola Taskforce, said several preventive measures have been adopted. These include the suspension of night discos, restriction of movement from 10:00 p.m. onwards, and a requirement for party organizers to seek permission before holding events. He noted that bars remain open but are under close observation.
Bahebwa further revealed that weekly markets have been suspended because they attract traders from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, which poses a heightened risk of disease transmission.
He added that boats operating between Buliisa and Panyimur have been directed to reduce passenger capacity from 60 to 25 people, while ferry services have reduced the number of passengers from 600 to 200 per trip. However, the ferry will continue operating three times daily.
Bahebwa appealed to residents to promptly report any suspected Ebola cases to health workers, police, and other relevant authorities. He urged the public to avoid direct contact with suspected victims and to strictly observe standard operating procedures, including regular hand washing, maintaining social distance, avoiding overcrowded places, and refraining from handshakes.
He also dismissed reports that schools would be closed, emphasizing that learning institutions remain operational under strict guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health. He encouraged parents and guardians to continue sending their children to school.
