Budaka Authorities Launch Manhunt for Man Who Fled Ebola Isolation Facility

Health authorities in Budaka District have launched a search for a man who fled from an isolation facility while being monitored for suspected Ebola symptoms. Although initial laboratory tests returned negative, local officials are taking no chances as they work to locate him.

The man, identified as Abubakar Modinghi, was initially picked up from Nakajeti Village in Budaka Town Council on October 31. Acting District Health Officer Ms. Hellen Wanyenze stated that the district disease surveillance team responded to reports from residents who noticed he was unwell and exhibiting concerning symptoms.

Modinghi was taken directly to Nasanga Health Centre III and placed under isolation. While the first set of laboratory samples tested negative, health protocols required a second round of testing after 72 hours to ensure safety. However, Modinghi escaped before the follow-up samples could be collected.

District Surveillance Officer Mr. Nasur Masaba noted that the patient is suspected to be in hiding, posing a potential risk to the community. He was reportedly spotted moving through Bwikomba and Nakiseneye in Lyama Sub-county. Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mr. Stephen Ogwang emphasized that the district remains on high alert, especially given the severe Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Ministry of Health public relations officer Mr. Allan Ssempebwa confirmed the initial negative findings. Uganda remains officially Ebola-free following the conclusion of its previous outbreak in July, but authorities continue to urge community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious symptoms to health officials.

Read more details in the Daily Monitor report.