Uganda Poised to End Ebola Outbreak; UK Pledges Continued Health Support

Uganda is on the cusp of declaring its latest Ebola outbreak over, according to Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi. Currently, only three patients remain under treatment and are showing steady recovery. The nation has recorded a total of 20 confirmed Ebola cases, resulting in two deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health.

Despite the encouraging progress, Dr. Baryomunsi urged the public to maintain vigilance and continue adhering to all prevention measures until the outbreak is fully contained.

These remarks were made at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) in Entebbe, where Dr. Baryomunsi welcomed the UK’s Minister of State for International Development and Africa, Baroness Jenny Chapman. The visit, timed before UVRI’s 90th anniversary, served to reinforce the UK’s dedication to supporting Uganda’s fight against infectious diseases through research, innovation, and enduring health collaborations.

Dr. Baryomunsi praised Uganda’s surveillance and response systems for effectively containing the outbreak. He emphasized the critical need for sustained investment in scientific research and preparedness, given Uganda’s ongoing challenges with infectious diseases.

Of the 20 confirmed cases, 15 involved Congolese nationals, highlighting the importance of cross-border surveillance and regional cooperation. Baroness Chapman affirmed the strong historical ties between the UK and Uganda, pledging continued support for research, infrastructure, and capacity building to enhance global health security.

The partnership between the two nations has been instrumental in bolstering Uganda’s health sector through investments in research, laboratory infrastructure, and disease surveillance. The collaboration extends to critical areas such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious diseases.

Professor Pontiano Kaleebu, Director of UVRI, highlighted the institute’s crucial role in disease surveillance, diagnostics, and research, characterizing it as a cornerstone of Uganda’s public health response.

As Uganda moves closer to declaring the outbreak ended, both officials stressed that continued vigilance and robust international partnerships are paramount for safeguarding the nation against future health threats.

Source: Nile Post