Ministry of health discharges 8 Ebola survivors

18 February 2025, 5:58 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

The Ministry of Health has today announced that eight people who had contracted Ebola are now discharged from hospital after recovering from the virus.

The outbreak was first reported on January 30, 2025, after a health worker at Mulago National Hospital tested positive for the Sudan Ebola virus. The diagnosis was confirmed through laboratory testing at both Mulago National Hospital and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI). Following the reported case, 256 contacts were put under isolation and eight were confirmed to have contracted the virus.

Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, reported that the ministry is still monitoring the contacts, but so far, no new cases have been reported.

Dr. Aceng also addressed the issue of misinformation being spread on social media platforms. She stated that such rumors are not only misleading but also affect the morale of health workers and the public’s response to the outbreak. “There is no country which would make sure risk declaration to her citizen,” she emphasised, adding that the ministry declares such emergencies in accordance with global health guidelines for the safety of citizens and travelers. She also pointed out that some of the misinformation targets accounting officers, which may affect health workers and the public.

Dr. Aceng reassured travelers and tourists that the risks have been minimised and encouraged them to continue visiting the country.

The eight discharged survivors were treated at two different facilities: seven were at the Mulago National Hospital isolation unit, while one was at the Mbale Regional Hospital and the public is called on to welcome them with love

The Ministry of Health also extended gratitude to the health workers for their tireless efforts in managing the outbreak.

The discharge ceremony was held today at Mulago National Hospital. One of the survivors, who was a primary contact of the deceased health worker, expressed gratitude to the health workers for their tireless efforts in saving his life and the lives of others.

The Ministry of Health reassured the public that they are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and ensure public safety.