Uganda Approaches Ebola-Free Status After 21 Days Without New Cases

Uganda has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against the Ebola Bundibugyo Virus, with health authorities confirming no new cases in the last 21 days. This crucial period is a strong indicator that local human-to-human transmission has been halted.

Minister of Health, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, informed Parliament that while the last patient has been discharged from the Ebola Treatment Unit at Mulago National Referral Hospital, the country must observe a full 42-day period without any new confirmed cases. This duration aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, representing two full incubation periods for the virus, before an outbreak can be officially declared over.

Since the initial declaration of the outbreak on May 15, 2026, Uganda recorded a total of 20 cases. Of these, 15 were imported from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with two fatalities reported, attributed to late presentation for treatment.

Uganda is also extending support to the DRC in their Ebola response efforts. President Yoweri Museveni has approved the establishment of four Ebola treatment centers in the DRC, and over 50 Ugandan specialists have been dispatched to assist. Joint surveillance initiatives and the establishment of laboratories at border points in Arua and Kasese districts are ongoing.

Awareness campaigns have been intensified in border communities, and measures such as the closure of borders with the DRC and the prohibition of community markets remain in effect. The government is also engaging with countries that imposed travel restrictions on Ugandans due to the outbreak.

While commending the government’s efforts, the Shadow Minister of Health, Hon. Sheilah Amaniyo, highlighted the need for improved public communication, suggesting that past messaging may have negatively impacted the country’s international image and tourism.

Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4501/health-minister-confirms-no-new-ebola-cases-uganda