Kibaale health team intensifies Ebola awareness amid Sudan strain outbreak

6 February 2025, 7:44 am

By James Muhumuza

It is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids and tissues.

The Sudan Ebola virus is highly severe, with a fatality rate of at least 40%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Uganda is currently experiencing its sixth outbreak of the disease.

In response to the recent outbreak of the Sudan strain of Ebola, the Kibaale district health team in the Bunyoro sub-region has launched a community awareness and screening campaign to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.

James Asiimwe, the Acting District Health Officer (DHO) of Kibaale, stated that a crisis meeting was held with health in-charges across the district to develop strategies for controlling the disease.

He urged the public to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to standard operating procedures to minimise the risk of infection.

Asiimwe reassured residents that no Ebola cases have been reported in Kibaale district so far but emphasised the importance of early detection and swift response.

School administrators have been advised to closely monitor learners for any symptoms and to report suspected cases immediately to health workers for prompt intervention.

Meanwhile, a person in Namisindwa district has died after exhibiting Ebola-like symptoms, including bleeding from all body openings.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night at Bukhabusi Health Centre III in Bukhabusi sub county.

The patient had been admitted earlier that day after developing a fever and malaria.

Stephen Masai Wasu, the Acting Namisindwa District Health Officer, reported that on Wednesday morning, a medical team from Mbale transported the body to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital Laboratory for testing to determine the cause of death.

Masai urged the public to remain cautious by avoiding large gatherings, handshakes, and other activities that could facilitate the spread of the disease.

He called for calm as the district health team awaits test results from Mbale, which are expected later today, before issuing an official statement.

Julie Namara, the Namisindwa Resident District Commissioner, noted that the Ebola response team is currently in Mbale City, where the disease has been reported.

She stated that if the deceased is confirmed to have had Ebola, all contacts, both at home and at Bukhabusi Health Centre III, will be traced and quarantined.

Last week, one Ebola case was confirmed in Mbale City, with the victim buried while 27 others remain in quarantine awaiting test results.

Bukhabusi Health Centre III was operating normally at the time of publishing this story.