Health 16 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Edges Closer to Ebola-Free Declaration Amidst Fake Certificate Scams
Uganda has entered the critical final phase of its Ebola response, with health officials optimistic about declaring the country free of the Bundibugyo strain within four weeks. However, a rise in fraudulent "Ebola-free" travel certificates poses a new challenge. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/four-weeks-to-zero-uganda-begins-ebola-countdown-but-health-officials-warn-of-fake-travel-certificates-5498722
Uganda is nearing a significant milestone in its fight against the Bundibugyo Ebola strain, potentially being declared free of the virus within the next four weeks. This timeline aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines, which require 42 days (two 21-day incubation periods) without new cases to formally end an outbreak.
The nation has now recorded 11 consecutive days without any new confirmed Ebola infections, fueling cautious optimism among health officials and international partners that transmission chains have been broken. Alan Kasujja, head of communication for Uganda’s Ebola response, confirmed the country is in the crucial monitoring phase.
Despite this encouraging progress, health experts stress that the situation remains fragile. Any new case identified during the remaining observation period would reset the 42-day countdown, necessitating renewed containment efforts. Surveillance teams remain on high alert, particularly in affected districts and along the porous border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
However, the fight against the virus is now complicated by a rise in fraudulent activities. The Ministry of Health has issued a stern warning about fake “Ebola-free” medical certificates being sold to unsuspecting travelers. These illicit documents claim to be mandatory for international travel, visa applications, or foreign employment, prompting authorities to clarify that no such certificates are required for departure from Uganda under current regulations.
Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, emphasized that Ebola testing is strictly regulated and reserved for symptomatic individuals or high-risk contacts. He urged the public to be vigilant against these scams and to rely on official government communications for accurate information.
Experts like Prof. Pontiano Kaleebu of the Uganda Virus Research Institute highlight the region’s vulnerability due to repeated outbreaks, underscoring the need for further research into the virus’s natural reservoirs to prevent future epidemics.
International assistance continues, with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) donating vital equipment, including thermal scanners and isolation structures, to Entebbe International Airport and border crossings to bolster surveillance efforts.