Health 19 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Quarantines 127 Contacts Amid Ebola Scare
Uganda has quarantined 127 individuals, including health workers, who had contact with imported Ebola cases from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials express confidence in containing the outbreak. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ebola-127-health-workers-contacts-quarantined-in-uganda-5465822
Uganda has stepped up efforts to contain a potential Ebola outbreak following two imported cases from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Ministry of Health has traced and isolated 127 contacts, primarily health workers and a driver, who were in contact with the patients.
According to Mr. Alan Kasujja, Executive Director of the Uganda Media Centre, none of the quarantined individuals have tested positive for the Ebola Sudan Virus Disease. The index patient, a Congolese national, died at Kibuli Muslim Hospital on May 14 and was reportedly taken back to the DRC the same day. The second patient is currently receiving treatment at the Mulago Ebola isolation unit.
“We are very good at tracing and tracking those people,” Kasujja stated, emphasizing that no resident of Uganda has contracted the virus. To prevent further spread, the country has postponed the Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations and bolstered screening measures at entry points.
Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant. Symptoms of the Ebola Sudan strain can appear within two to 21 days of infection and include fever, severe headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and in some cases, red eyes, diarrhea, and vomiting. More severe symptoms may develop days later.
The Ministry of Health advises avoiding physical contact with symptomatic individuals, practicing good hygiene, and seeking immediate medical attention if Ebola-like symptoms arise. They have also provided a toll-free number (0800-100-066) and an SMS service (6767) for reporting suspected cases.