Allergies and persistent infections are the main triggers for the rising cases of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) infections in infants, as highlighted by Dr. Bisso Fred, a senior consultant at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
Dr. Bisso emphasizes the impact on the country’s future generation due to the growing backlog of ENT cases over the past two years.
During a recent ENT surgical camp, Dr. Bisso mentions that they successfully operated on over 100 children out of the 600-plus waiting list, providing much-needed relief and addressing the burden.
In addition to allergies, recurring infections are linked to pollutants, self-medication, lack of awareness, and Adenotosillar hypertrophy, a condition causing breathing issues in children.
In a spectrum of short term symptoms, Adenotosillar hypertrophy in juniors causes mouth breathing, nasal congestion, hyponasal speech, snoring, chronic sinusitis and recurrent otitis media.
Dr. Bisso further urged Ugandans to prioritize hygiene, immunization, proper feeding, and avoiding perfumes to prevent ENT infections because like any other they can also be prevented.
Looking ahead, the ENT team aims to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to enhance Mulago’s capacity, addressing shortages in instrument sets and extending services to regional referral hospitals.
Dr. Bugembe Abubakar, another consultant surgeon in ENT, emphasizes the importance of parents being vigilant about infections in children. “The successful outcomes in the camp contribute to a brighter future for Ugandan children,” he further highlighted.
Ms. Nalongo Nambogo Veronica a resident of Kyanja Nakawa division noted that the inflamed tonsillitis attacked her twins in late January and after a week of persistent pain, they resorted to visiting a specialist in Mulago who proposed a surgery.
Grateful Nalongo, thanked the hospital management and doctors for the successful operation on the daughters and she added that she will have a relieved time with the twins ahead.
Mulago hospital, equipped with modern facilities, conducts ENT clinics every Monday and pediatric clinics every Tuesday, actively addressing patient needs and reducing backlog through specialized surgeries and assistance.