Uganda Declares End to Ebola Outbreak After 42 Days Without New Cases
Uganda Successfully Contains Deadly Ebola Outbreak
Uganda has officially declared the end of its recent Ebola outbreak, which began three months ago when the first case was detected in Kampala. The Ministry of Health announced the milestone on social media, celebrating 42 consecutive days without any new infections.
“GOOD NEWS! The current Ebola Sudan Virus Disease outbreak has officially come to an end. This follows 42 days without a new case since the last confirmed patient was discharged on March 14 2025.” – Ministry of Health Uganda
Understanding the Sudan Virus Disease Outbreak
The World Health Organization confirmed this was a Sudan virus disease (SVD) subtype outbreak, a particularly deadly strain with a historical fatality rate of 40%. During this outbreak:
- 12 confirmed and 2 probable cases were reported
- 4 deaths occurred (2 confirmed, 2 probable)
- 10 patients successfully recovered
- Over 500 contacts were monitored
Rapid Response and Treatment Efforts
While no approved vaccine exists for the SVD subtype, health authorities implemented several emergency measures:
- Launched clinical trials for experimental vaccines within 4 days
- Administered Remdesivir under emergency protocols
- Implemented ring vaccination strategies
Challenges Faced by Health Workers
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, WHO’s acting Regional Director for Africa, noted this outbreak presented unique difficulties:
“It touched both urban and rural communities across the country and unfolded against the backdrop of significant global funding constraints.”
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Uganda’s response, highlighting the collaborative effort that contained the outbreak in under four months.
Ongoing Surveillance and Future Preparedness
Health authorities continue to invest in:
- Enhanced disease surveillance systems
- Survivor care programs
- Emergency preparedness initiatives
Source: Black Enterprise