Kampala, Uganda – Uganda has confirmed two new Ebola cases in its capital, Kampala, just two weeks after discharging all previously recovered patients. The fresh cases have reignited concerns over the resurgence of the deadly virus.
New Cases Confirmed in Kampala
Health Minister Dr. Ruth Aceng announced on Thursday that two family members of a recent Ebola fatality have tested positive for the Sudan Ebola virus. The child, who was undergoing treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital, succumbed to the disease on February 25. This development brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases to 12 since the outbreak was declared on January 30.
“We have two patients, both contacts of the child we lost, who have tested positive for the Ebola virus,” Aceng stated while addressing reporters.
The second fatality, a four-and-a-half-year-old child from Kibuli, a suburb of Kampala, passed away after receiving care at the hospital. Uganda had initially declared an Ebola outbreak following the death of a 32-year-old nurse in Kampala on January 30.
Government Strengthens Ebola Response Efforts
The Ugandan Ministry of Health has ramped up its Ebola response measures to curb further spread. Authorities continue active case searches in all health facilities, rigorous contact tracing, and exit screenings for outbound travelers. Vaccination efforts targeting contacts linked to confirmed cases remain a priority.
“We are still conducting intensive surveillance, monitoring not only this current cluster but also previous clusters and the entire Kampala Metropolitan Area,” Aceng added.
Officials urge the public to remain vigilant and adhere to health guidelines to minimize the risk of transmission.
Previous Ebola Outbreaks in Uganda
Uganda has a history of battling Ebola outbreaks. The most recent large-scale outbreak, which started in September 2022 and ended in January 2023, resulted in 164 confirmed cases and 77 deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Sudan Ebola strain, responsible for the current outbreak, has no approved vaccine, making containment efforts even more critical. Uganda’s health authorities, in collaboration with international partners, continue working towards an effective response to mitigate the impact of the virus.
Public Advised to Stay Informed
The government advises residents to remain cautious and seek medical attention if they exhibit Ebola symptoms such as fever, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, or severe weakness. Early detection and treatment significantly improve survival rates.
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