The Ministry of Health has reassured the public that Uganda remains safe for travel despite the ongoing Ebola outbreak.
The assurance follows the confirmation of nine cases since the outbreak was declared on January 30, 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday, 10 February 2025, Acting Director General of Health Services, Dr Charles Olaro, emphasized that “the situation is under control and the country remains safe with no travel restrictions.”
In response to this collectively, he urged the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals exhibiting symptoms to the nearest health facility.
“The Ministry has heightened surveillance efforts, intensified public health risk communication, and strengthened community engagement efforts,” Olaro said.
He added that the government remains committed to preventing further spread through strict follow-up measures.
Dr Olaro also confirmed that eight of the nine confirmed cases are receiving medical care in stable condition.
“Seven patients are currently being treated at Mulago National Referral Hospital, while one patient is at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital,” he said.
The outbreak was officially declared on January 30, following the death of a 32-year-old male nurse, identified as the index case. To contain the outbreak, the Ministry has placed 265 contacts under quarantine and intensified surveillance efforts.
The Ministry of Health has since activated emergency response teams and enhanced coordination with partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) with whom they recently launched in February the first-ever clinical efficacy trial for a vaccine from the Sudan species of the virus.
WHO director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti said that this joint effort marks a major milestone in public health emergency response and demonstrates the power of collaboration for global health security.
Ebola symptoms start with fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat, progressing to vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and internal or external bleeding.The virus spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or tissues.
The Sudan Ebola strain is highly fatal, with a mortality rate of at least 40%, according to WHO.
The public has been urged to report any suspected cases to the Ministry’s toll-free line (0800-100-066) and adhere to preventive guidelines as health authorities continue to monitor the situation.
