Uganda refers eight patients with Ebola, according to the Minister of Health – 02/19/2025

Uganda Ebola Outbreak Update: Eight Recovered, Contacts Under Watch

Uganda has made progress in its battle against the recent Ebola outbreak, with eight patients recovering and being released from isolation.

Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng announced the good news at a press conference on Tuesday, stating that eight individuals who where infected with the virus have made a full recovery.

“Eight other people have been treated and ‘are doing well and should be released today,’ said Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng at a press conference on Tuesday.

Quarantine and Surveillance Measures in Place

Despite the positive developments, the Ugandan Ministry of Health remains vigilant, with 265 close contacts of Ebola patients currently under strict observation in Kampala, Jinja, and Mbale.

According to Minister Aceng, “None of these contacts has presented symptoms so far, but they will remain in quarantine for 21 days from the moment they have been in contact or exposed in the index case,”

Ebola strain and Vaccine Availability

The current outbreak is caused by the Zaire strain of the Ebola virus, a highly infectious and ofen fatal hemorrhagic disease. Unlike the strain that caused the outbreaks in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo,there is no vaccine currently available for this strain.

However, a test program is underway to develop a vaccine for the Zaire strain. Existing vaccines are designed to target the Sudan strain,which was responsible for the last Ebola epidemic in Uganda.

Understanding Ebola Symptoms and Transmission

Ebola virus disease is characterized by symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle aches. The virus spreads through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, and with surfaces and materials (such as clothing or bedding) contaminated with these fluids.

A Collective Effort for Containment

The Ugandan government, supported by international organizations, is working tirelessly to contain the Ebola outbreak.

Early detection, isolation of infected individuals, contact tracing, and public health education are crucial components of the containment strategy. It is indeed imperative that communities adhere to preventive measures such as hand hygiene, avoiding contact with infected persons, and reporting any suspected cases immediately.

The recovery of eight Ebola patients is a testament to the dedication of healthcare workers and the effectiveness of the disease control measures. However,the ongoing threat requires sustained vigilance and a united effort to ensure that the outbreak is brought under control.

What specific challenges has Uganda faced in implementing the 21-day observation period for Ebola contacts?

Exclusive Interview: Uganda’s Ebola Response – balancing Hope and Vigilance

Archyde News Editor recently had the opportunity to speak with Dr.hannah N Burgos, a renowned virologist and advisor to Uganda’s Ministry of Health, about the ongoing Ebola outbreak and the nation’s response measures. Here’s what Dr. Burgos had to say:

Recovered Patients and Current Status

Archyde: Eight patients have been discharged after recovering from ebola. Can you tell us more about this positive development?

Dr.Burgos: Indeed, it’s splendid news. These eight individuals have completed the treatment protocol and have tested negative for the virus twice.Thier discharge is a testament to the fantastic work of our healthcare teams and the efficacy of the available treatment options.

Archyde: What about the othre contacts under observation? How is Uganda managing this critical phase of contact tracing?

Dr. Burgos: We have 265 close contacts under active surveillance. None have reported symptoms so far, thanks to our rigorous follow-up system. Each contact is visited daily by our responds, who provide health education, monitor for symptoms, and ensure they understand the importance of completing the full 21-day observation period.

Ebola Strain and Vaccine Development

Archyde: The current outbreak involves the Zaire strain. Can we hope for a vaccine in the near future?

Dr. burgos: Unluckily,we don’t yet have a proven vaccine for the Zaire strain. The vaccine used in the previous Ugandan outbreak targets the Sudan strain. Though, several international organizations are working tirelessly to develop and test vaccines for the zaire strain. It’s a complex process, but we’re hopeful that a solution will be available soon.

understanding Ebola and Protecting Ourselves

Archyde: How can ordinary Ugandans protect themselves from Ebola,given its mode of transmission?

Dr. Burgos: Education and hygiene are key. Ebola doesn’t spread easily; it requires direct contact with infected bodily fluids.So, we must avoid contact with infected persons or their bodily fluids, especially when they’re symptomatic. Regular handwashing with soap and water, physical distancing, and immediate reporting of any suspected cases can greatly reduce the risk of infection.

Sustaining community Support for Containment Efforts

Archyde: Maintaining community involvement and compliance in preventive measures can be challenging. How do you foster continued support for control measures?

Dr. Burgos: That’s a crucial question. We need to ensure messages are communicated clearly and consistently.Voluntary community health workers play a vital role in this, as they’re often trusted more than outsiders.We also must recognize and address community concerns, provide accurate information, and ensure that our response respects cultural and social norms.

Dr. Burgos’ insights underscore Uganda’s concerted effort to overcome the Ebola challenge. With vigilance, cooperation, and continued learning, we can overcome this threat and protect our communities.