Uganda Enhances Ebola Screening Amidst Rising Refugee Influx at Nyakabande

Nyakabande Refugee Transit Centre in Kisoro District is facing immense pressure as it grapples with an escalating number of refugees arriving from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The recent surge, driven by widespread insecurity, hunger, and violence from armed groups, has led to overcrowding, with the facility now accommodating more than double its intended capacity.

In response to the growing influx and heightened regional concerns over the latest Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, Ugandan authorities have bolstered Ebola prevention measures. These include mandatory handwashing, stringent medical screening of new arrivals for symptoms, and the consistent use of face masks by staff and visitors. Community sensitization efforts and re-screening before refugees are transferred to settlement camps are also being prioritized.

Despite these enhanced measures, officials warn that the transit centre is struggling to cope. Shortages in manpower, exacerbated by reduced staffing from development partners facing funding constraints, pose a significant challenge. Furthermore, there are concerns about inadequate supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and sanitizers.

The number of daily refugee arrivals has dramatically increased, jumping from approximately 50 individuals to an average of 253 per day since mid-May. This influx places a considerable strain on the health screening process, raising fears of potential cross-border transmission of the Ebola virus.

To alleviate congestion and mitigate public health risks, authorities are planning to relocate around 1,200 refugees from Nyakabande to Nakivale Refugee Settlement. Local leaders are urging border communities to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to all Ebola prevention guidelines, emphasizing the critical role of screening, rapid isolation, and cross-border coordination in stemming the spread of the disease.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)