Uganda's Second Ebola Patient Tests Negative, Ministry Reports

Uganda has reported encouraging news regarding the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), with the second confirmed patient testing negative for the virus. This development, announced by the Ministry of Health, indicates that the country may currently be free of active Ebola cases.

Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the patient, a Congolese national, underwent two negative tests on May 18th and May 20th, 2026. While recovering from comorbidities, she is no longer considered a threat for active Ebola transmission.

In total, Uganda has confirmed two imported cases of Ebola involving individuals who entered from the Democratic Republic of Congo. One fatality was recorded, but the remaining patient is recovering. A total of 127 contacts, including health workers, have been placed under a 21-day quarantine, with none testing positive so far.

The Ministry emphasized that vigilance is crucial due to Uganda’s proximity to the Ebola epicenter and ongoing cross-border activities. They also reiterated prevention measures, including avoiding physical contact with symptomatic individuals, practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with bodily fluids, and seeking immediate medical attention for any Ebola-like symptoms.

Symptoms of Ebola include sudden fever, fatigue, chest pain, diarrhea, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, and can have a fatality rate of 30-50 percent, with no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/second-ebola-patient-in-uganda-tests-negative-5468776