Health 18 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lake Albert Surveillance Tightened Amid Ebola Fears and Suspected Case
Health authorities in Uganda's Hoima District have intensified surveillance on Lake Albert and its shores due to an Ebola outbreak in neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo, with a suspected case now isolated in the region. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/movement-within-lake-albert-under-strict-surveillance-over-ebola-5464810
Hoima District health officials have significantly increased monitoring of all movement across Lake Albert and along its shoreline. This heightened surveillance is a direct response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has reportedly claimed 80 lives.
Health workers have been strategically deployed at various landing sites, serving as entry and exit points for the lake. Their primary role is to screen all individuals entering the district. “We have set up screening teams at the landing sites to ensure that all people entering the district are checked,” stated Dr. Lawrence Tumusiime, the Acting District Health Officer for Hoima.
An awareness campaign is also underway, educating communities on critical preventative measures. Residents are being advised to avoid direct contact with sick individuals and deceased bodies, and to promptly report any suspected cases to health authorities. Emphasis is also being placed on maintaining good hygiene, particularly regular handwashing.
Concerns grew on Monday when a 50-year-old man from the Runga Landing Site presented at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital with severe symptoms, including a high fever, loss of appetite, vomiting blood, and nosebleeds. These are symptoms consistent with Ebola virus disease. The patient, who initially sought treatment for a severe headache, was immediately isolated after his condition worsened and displayed these alarming signs.
His blood samples have been collected and sent to the Central Emergency Surveillance and Response Support Laboratory for definitive testing. Dr. Tumusiime urged residents around Lake Albert’s landing sites to cooperate fully with the health teams conducting screening exercises while awaiting the laboratory results.
Uganda has a history of Ebola outbreaks, necessitating strong surveillance systems, especially in border districts with the DRC. This proactive approach aims to ensure early detection and swift isolation of potential cases, coupled with public cooperation, to prevent further spread.