KAMPALA, Uganda
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant and follow health guidelines as the country continues to respond to an Ebola outbreak that has so far resulted in 19 confirmed cases.
According to State House Uganda, 14 of the 19 cases are linked to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and belong to the same family, highlighting the role of cross-border transmission in the outbreak.
In what authorities describe as an encouraging sign, no new Ebola cases had been reported for five consecutive days at the time of the President’s address.
Health officials say the development suggests that ongoing containment measures may be helping to slow the spread of the virus.
The government has, however, cautioned against complacency, noting that outbreaks can quickly escalate if public health measures are ignored.
Authorities are urging Ugandans to continue observing preventive measures, including avoiding unnecessary physical contact.
State House emphasized that Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and that simple precautions can help reduce the risk of transmission.
The government has advised the public to temporarily avoid handshakes and instead use non-contact greetings such as waving.
“Health is more important than wealth,” State House said, stressing that the outbreak is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
President Museveni expressed confidence in the country’s ability to contain the outbreak, citing Uganda’s previous success in dealing with major public health emergencies, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and earlier Ebola outbreaks.
Uganda has developed a reputation for rapid outbreak response, supported by surveillance systems, contact tracing teams, laboratory testing, and collaboration with international health partners.
The Ministry of Health and other government agencies continue to encourage citizens to report suspected cases, cooperate with health workers, and follow official guidance.
Health experts say public awareness and community cooperation remain critical in preventing further infections.
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