Uganda Sees Dramatic Decline in Pneumonia and Meningitis Cases

Health officials credit widespread vaccine rollout for saving thousands of children.

Kampala, Uganda. Uganda’s public health landscape is witnessing a promising turnaround. Recent government and health ministry data shows a sharp decline in pneumonia and meningitis cases among children under five, following the nationwide pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) rollout.

Dr. Grace Nyakato, Pediatric Health Coordinator at Mulago Hospital, said:

“We are seeing reductions of over 60% in hospital admissions for these illnesses. Parents are relieved, and children are healthier.”

Since its introduction, the vaccine program has reached over 95% of districts, with mobile outreach teams serving remote rural areas. Officials note that improved cold-chain logistics and community education campaigns have played key roles in driving uptake.

Local mothers have reported visible improvements. Amina Luwaga, a mother of three in Rakai district, said:

“I no longer fear sending my youngest to school because pneumonia cases are dropping. Vaccines are saving lives.”

Health experts caution, however, that coverage gaps remain in certain remote areas, where access to clinics is limited. Strategies are underway to reach these communities through mobile vaccination units and partnerships with NGOs.

The Ministry of Health estimates that the successful vaccine campaign could reduce child mortality by up to 15% nationally, contributing significantly to Uganda’s health and development goals.

Uganda experiences significant reduction in pneumonia and meningitis among children after successful PCV vaccine rollout.
Keywords: Uganda vaccines, child health, pneumococcal vaccine, pneumonia, meningitis, public health