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Uganda’s Ministry of Health has confirmed nine cases of Ebola, raising the count from the initial three cases reported earlier this month. This marks the sixth outbreak of the Ebola Sudan species in the East African nation, for which there is no approved vaccine. The outbreak was first announced on January 30, 2025, following the death of a nurse in the capital city of Kampala.
Health Ministry Reports Increase in Ebola Cases
In a statement released on February 10, 2025, Dr. Charles Olaro, the acting director-general of Health Services, confirmed the rise in Ebola cases. He mentioned that the first case, also known as the index case, succumbed to the disease. The remaining eight confirmed cases are currently receiving medical care and are in stable condition. Seven patients are being treated at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala, while one patient is at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital.
Quarantine Measures and Public Health Response Towards Ebola
In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has placed 265 contacts under quarantine and implemented strict follow-up measures. Surveillance efforts have been heightened, and public health risk communication has been intensified to ensure community engagement and awareness. The ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with Ebola to the nearest health facility or contact the Ministry of Health’s toll-free line.
Transmission and Symptoms of Ebola
Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person or a person who died of the disease. It can also be contracted through contact with contaminated objects or materials. Symptoms of Ebola include high body temperature, fatigue, chest pain, diarrhea, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, and yellowing of the eyes. Bleeding is usually a late symptom of the disease.
Ebola Vaccination Trial and International Support
To combat the outbreak, Uganda has launched a trial of a vaccine against the Sudan strain of Ebola. The World Health Organization is working with the Ugandan Ministry of Health, the Uganda Virus Research Institute, and the Makerere University Lung Institute on this trial. The Sudan Ebola virus is known to kill at least 40 percent of those infected.
Historical Context and Previous Outbreaks of Ebola
Ebola was first discovered in 1976 in two simultaneous outbreaks in South Sudan and Congo. The disease is named after the Ebola River, near which the first outbreak occurred. Uganda has faced multiple Ebola outbreaks over the years, with the last one occurring in September 2022 and resulting in at least 55 deaths.
The current Ebola outbreak in Uganda highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the country in controlling the spread of the deadly virus. With nine confirmed cases and 265 contacts under quarantine, the Ministry of Health is working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and protect public health. The vaccination trial and international support are crucial steps in the fight against Ebola, and continued vigilance is essential to prevent further spread of the disease.