Six new infections linked to existing cases have been confirmed, taking Uganda’s Ebola tally to 15….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Uganda has confirmed six new Ebola cases, bringing the total number of infections in the country’s latest outbreak to 15, as health authorities step up efforts to prevent further transmission.
The Ministry of Health said on Tuesday that the newly confirmed cases were identified among people who had been in contact with previously infected patients.
According to the ministry’s latest outbreak update, 12 Ebola patients are currently receiving treatment at designated health facilities, while two individuals have recovered and been discharged.
Uganda declared the outbreak in May after confirming two imported cases of Ebola Virus Disease, including one fatality.
Health officials are currently monitoring 668 contacts linked to confirmed infections as part of an extensive surveillance and contact tracing operation aimed at containing the spread of the virus.
The latest increase in cases has raised concerns about the potential for wider transmission, prompting authorities to intensify public awareness campaigns and encourage early reporting of symptoms.
Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, urged members of the public to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms associated with Ebola.
He said early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of survival and help prevent further spread of the disease.
Authorities have expanded contact tracing efforts and strengthened surveillance measures in affected areas as part of the national response.
The outbreak comes as African health authorities continue to face challenges from recurring Ebola outbreaks across parts of the continent.
Meanwhile, India has stepped up support for Africa’s Ebola response by dispatching a second tranche of medical assistance to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
The 43 tonne consignment includes protective gear, diagnostic and monitoring equipment, medicines and nutritional supplements aimed at strengthening public health preparedness and response capabilities.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said the shipment would help bolster Ebola response efforts across Africa.
“India has dispatched the second tranche of medical assistance to Africa CDC, comprising protective gear, diagnostic and monitoring equipment, medicines, and supplements. Confident that this 43 tons consignment will further strengthen public health preparedness and bolster Ebola response capacities across Africa,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
The latest shipment follows an earlier consignment of urgent medical supplies and protective kits sent by India to Africa CDC on May 24.
Ugandan health authorities have continued to stress vigilance as they work to isolate cases, monitor contacts and prevent the outbreak from spreading further within the country and across the region.
