Uganda Confirms Two New Ebola Cases, Both Congolese Nationals

The Ministry of Health in Uganda has announced the confirmation of two additional cases of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Kampala. These new cases bring the total number of confirmed Ebola cases in Uganda to nine, with one death recorded so far.

Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry, stated on Friday that both individuals testing positive are nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The first case involves an individual who presented with symptoms strongly indicative of Ebola. Ministry rapid response teams acted promptly to isolate the patient upon noticing the symptoms, and all identified contacts are now under close observation and follow-up.

The second confirmed case is reported to be a contact of a previously confirmed Ebola patient. The Ministry is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of Ebola immediately.

Common symptoms of Ebola include a sudden onset of fever, fatigue, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and unexplained bleeding. The Ministry emphasizes that early reporting significantly improves the chances of survival. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to call the Ministry of Health’s toll-free hotline at 0800-100-066, or send an SMS alert to 6767 or U-Report on 8500.

Uganda has implemented several measures to control the spread of Ebola, including closing its border with the DRC, restricting public gatherings, enhancing public awareness campaigns, establishing isolation and quarantine centers, and reinforcing contact tracing protocols.

Ebola is known to spread through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, and tissues of infected people and animals. It can also spread through contact with objects and surfaces contaminated with these fluids.

To prevent transmission, the Ministry advises avoiding physical contact with individuals showing Ebola symptoms, practicing regular handwashing, avoiding contact with bodily fluids, seeking immediate medical attention for flu-like symptoms, ensuring safe handling and burial of deceased individuals suspected of having Ebola, and installing hand-washing facilities in all public places.

For more information, please refer to the Daily Monitor: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/two-congolese-nationals-test-ebola-positive-in-uganda-5477838