A puzzling illness, locally known as "Dinga Dinga" or "shaking like dancing," is affecting over 300 people, primarily women and girls, in Uganda's Bundibugyo District.
The disease is characterized by fever and uncontrollable body shaking, making walking difficult, according to local media. While most cases resolve themselves within a week, some patients seek treatment at Bundibugyo General Hospital.
District Health Officer Dr. Kiyita Christopher told local media that samples have been sent to the health ministry for analysis, noting that no cases have been reported in neighboring districts.
He emphasized that the disease is generally manageable with antibiotic treatment administered by village health teams, and no deaths have been reported.
"There is no scientific evidence that herbal medicine can treat this disease. We are using specific treatments, and patients usually recover within a week. I urge locals to seek treatment from health facilities within the district," Dr. Kiyita said.
An 18-year-old patient, Patience Katusiime, described her experience, saying, "I felt weak and got paralyzed, with my body shaking uncontrollably whenever I tried to walk. It was very disturbing. I was taken to Bundibugyo hospital for treatment, and thank God, I am now fine."