Kampala, Uganda — The World Health Organization (WHO) has pronounced Uganda free from the Ebola virus, a declaration made following the successful containment of the outbreak.
The 42-day monitoring period since the last confirmed patient was discharged passed without incident, solidifying the WHO’s confirmation.
The outbreak, which began in April 2026, was directly linked to the ongoing Ebola epidemic in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The DRC’s situation is dire, with over 4,500 cases and more than 2,000 deaths attributed to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus. Uganda’s Health Ministry declared the country Ebola-free on July 28, 2026, after the final patient was discharged on June 16.
The declaration was underpinned by assessments of risk, the transmission chain, and the importation dynamics within Uganda. Stringent measures were enforced by the Ugandan government to curtail transmission, including the cancellation of large events, advisories against handshaking, and the suspension of public transportation and flights between Uganda and the DRC.
The WHO’s confirmation comes as a relief to the Ugandan government, with Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi hoping for the lifting of travel restrictions imposed by other countries during the outbreak. Despite the success in Uganda, the situation remains critical in the DRC, where the virus continues to spread unchecked.
The WHO has issued temporary recommendations for member states, emphasizing disease surveillance, case detection, and community engagement to prevent the virus from crossing borders.
The ongoing outbreak underscores the significance of regional cooperation and international support in combating such health emergencies. Efforts are ongoing in the DRC, with the WHO and other health organizations working closely with the government to enhance vaccination campaigns and establish isolation centers.
The experience in Uganda is seen as a model for rapid response and containment strategies, crucial in preventing the further spread of diseases like Ebola.
The WHO remains vigilant about the situation in the DRC, ensuring no resurgence occurs in Uganda or elsewhere.
The organization emphasizes the need for sustained vigilance and preparedness to forestall future outbreaks.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
