Uganda is on course to be declared Ebola-free on April 25, pending the successful completion of a 42-day countdown without any new reported cases, according to Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Dr. Aceng confirmed that no new infections have been registered since the last confirmed case, marking a significant step toward ending the latest Ebola outbreak. The virus, which previously affected several districts including Kampala, Wakiso, Mbale, Fort Portal, and Ntoroko, prompted swift intervention from health authorities and international partners.
“The Ministry of Health has maintained a high level of alertness,” Dr. Aceng said. “While we are hopeful to declare the end of this outbreak, Uganda remains vulnerable to future health emergencies.”
To bolster preparedness, Dr. Aceng announced new initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s disease surveillance and response systems. This includes the training and equipping of more community health extension workers with digital tools to improve early detection and data reporting at the grassroots level.
“We are investing in technology and human resources to ensure that our communities are not only protected but also able to respond quickly when threats arise,” she added.
The Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases. If no new Ebola cases are detected by April 25, Uganda will officially be declared Ebola-free in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.