Health officials have raised concern over high prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among schoolgoing girls in Mbale and neighbouring districts.

According to a report from city health officials, about 50 percent of young girls get UTIs almost every two months.

Dr Denis Kutosi, a medical officer at Cure Children Hospital in Mbale City, blamed the infections on poor hygiene in schools and at homes.

He said girls get UTIs more often than boys due to differences in their body shape and length of the urethra (the tube through which urine flows out of the bladder and your body).

Mr Mubakar Masifa, the head teacher of Bukonde Secondary School, blamed the poor sanitation at school on the lack of access to water.

Ms Annet khaniza, a teacher at Wastemba Primary School in Namabasa Sub-county, said they share toilets with outsiders.

Ms Josephine Lunyolo, the secretary for production and social services in Mbale City, said they will launch a campaign to promote hygiene in the schools to reduce the spread of infections.