Fear grips Kampala as Uganda confirms its first Ebola case in the bustling capital, raising fresh concerns over the virus’s spread beyond rural hotspots.
The Ministry of Health has confirmed the first case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the capital city, Kampala. The patient, a 45-year-old male, was admitted to Mulago National Referral Hospital after exhibiting symptoms consistent with Ebola. Laboratory tests conducted by the Uganda Virus Research Institute have confirmed the diagnosis.
In a statement released on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Ministry emphasized that the patient is currently in isolation and receiving appropriate medical care. They assured the public that contact tracing efforts are underway to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
Health authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures, including:
- Regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Avoiding physical contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or bleeding.
- Reporting any suspected cases to the nearest health facility immediately.
The Ministry has also activated rapid response teams to manage the situation and prevent further spread of the virus. They are collaborating with international partners, including the World Health Organization, to ensure a coordinated response.
This development marks a significant escalation in Uganda’s ongoing efforts to control the Ebola outbreak, which had previously been confined to rural areas. The Ministry is appealing to the public to remain calm and follow official communications for updates.
For more information and updates, follow the Ministry of Health on X: @MinofHealthUG