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The Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of Sudan Ebola Virus Disease in Kampala. The index case, a 32-year-old nurse, passed away at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Authorities have identified 44 contacts and initiated response measures, including isolation, contact tracing, and vaccination. The government assures the public that the situation is under control.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed an outbreak of Sudan Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Kampala, marking Uganda’s eighth Ebola outbreak. Laboratory tests conducted at the Central Public Health Laboratory, the Uganda Virus Research Institute, and Makerere University have confirmed the presence of the virus.

The index case has been identified as a 32-year-old male nurse working at Mulago National Referral Hospital. He initially presented with fever-like symptoms and sought treatment at multiple healthcare facilities, including Saidina Abubakar Islamic Hospital in Matugga, Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, and from a traditional healer. His condition deteriorated, manifesting symptoms such as high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and unexplained bleeding. He subsequently developed multi-organ failure and passed away at Mulago National Referral Hospital on January 29, 2025. Post-mortem samples confirmed Sudan Ebola Virus Disease.

Health authorities have identified 44 contacts, including 30 healthcare workers and patients from Mulago, 11 family members, and four health workers from Saidina Abubakar Islamic Hospital. All identified contacts have been placed under isolation, and further contact tracing is underway, particularly in Mbale.

In response, the Ministry of Health has activated the Incident Management Team and deployed Rapid Response Teams to the affected areas. Isolation centers have been established, and symptomatic contacts will be transferred to designated treatment facilities. Additionally, arrangements have been made for a dignified and safe burial of the deceased to prevent further transmission of the virus.

The Ministry has initiated an immediate vaccination campaign targeting all identified contacts and frontline healthcare workers. Epidemiological teams have been deployed to operationalize Regional Emergency Operation Centers in Kampala and Mbale.

Healthcare workers are strongly urged to adhere to strict infection prevention and control measures and to report any suspected cases immediately. Private healthcare facilities must comply with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and coordinate with district health authorities for case management.

Furthermore, Resident District and City Commissioners in Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Mbale, and Mpigi have been directed to activate Ebola Task Forces and enhance surveillance for suspected cases.

The Ministry of Health advises the public to avoid physical contact with symptomatic individuals, practice regular hand hygiene, and refrain from handling the bodies of suspected Ebola victims. Public places are encouraged to implement mandatory handwashing stations to enhance infection prevention.

“The Government of Uganda reassures the public that the situation is under control and remains committed to safeguarding lives,” the Ministry of Health stated.