Disaster Management and Prevalence of Diseases in Central Uganda

ABSTRACT This study sought to examine disaster management and prevalence of diseases in Central Uganda with special focus on AIC, Mulago and IHK. The specific objectives were to determine the: profile of the members of disaster team; level of achievement of disaster teams in incidences of diseases; level of prevalence of disaster diseases; challenges faced by disaster team in prevalence of diseases and the relationship between the levels of achievement in disaster management and prevalence rate of diseases. The study employed a descriptive survey design employing both qualitative and quantitative data by use of questionnaires, and interview guide as study instruments administered on a sample size of 166 with a response rate of 74.4%. The findings revealed that management teams are achieving success in managing malaria, offering VCT services; screening and treating opportunistic infections and diseases; research and documentation. Diseases have also remained prevalent due to poor sanitation and hygiene, low application of mosquito nets, cases of untreated stigma related diseases, and others. This however cannot be underestimated or restricted to these conditions but disaster teams experience difficulties of low skill capacities with a few technical staff, decentralization of medical units, among others. The study concluded that; Management controls have a significant effect on level of achievement, effective controls may be available but teams may have limited skills. The study recommends need to; improve funding; mobilization of community funding; ongoing prevention, vaccination and disease control campaigns; improved advocacy for the uneducated to seek professional medical assistance; focus on fighting stigma; promote skills; introduce penalties for corruption cases and more public health centers be constructed.