Uganda’s Ministry of Health officially declared the end of its latest Ebola outbreak on Saturday, after 42 consecutive days without a single new infection since the last confirmed patient was discharged.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Ministry celebrated the achievement, stating:

“Good news! The current Ebola Sudan Virus Disease outbreak has officially come to an end.”

The outbreak, first detected in late January after the death of a healthcare worker, had resulted in 14 confirmed cases and four fatalities across five districts, including the capital Kampala. Health authorities highlighted that strong community cooperation and support from international partners were critical in controlling the spread of the virus.

The World Health Organization’s interim regional director for Africa, Chikwe Ihekweazu, acknowledged that the outbreak presented new challenges due to its impact on both urban and rural communities, compounded by global funding constraints.

This outbreak was caused by the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus — a variant for which no licensed vaccine currently exists. Although considered less transmissible than the more lethal Zaire strain, Sudan strain infections can still carry a fatality rate of between 40 and 100 percent.

During the crisis, Uganda’s health workers swiftly implemented isolation, tracing, and community education measures to contain the virus. Their experience from a previous outbreak in 2022, which saw 142 confirmed cases and 55 deaths, greatly contributed to their rapid and effective response this year.

Persistent Threats Despite Victory

While officials and communities celebrate this milestone, health experts continue to warn that Ebola remains a serious health threat in Africa. The virus, known for causing acute hemorrhagic symptoms, spreads through direct contact with the blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that vigilance must remain high, especially in strengthening disease surveillance systems and supporting ongoing research toward an effective vaccine for the Sudan strain.

Our success is a testament to the resilience of our people and our health system. But the threat is not over until we find a permanent solution,” said a spokesperson for Uganda’s Ministry of Health.

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