Uganda remains free of Ebola despite confirmation of an Ebola case in Kenya involving an individual who travelled from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and briefly transited through Uganda, the Ministry of Health has said.
In a statement issued on October 6, the ministry said preliminary investigations indicate that the individual identified as an Ebola case in Kenya passed through Uganda for less than 24 hours before travelling onward to Kenya.
According to the ministry, the traveller was screened by health teams and had a normal temperature at the time of departure from Entebbe.
“The Ministry of Health reassures the people of Uganda and the international community that Uganda remains free of Ebola,” the statement said.
The ministry said Uganda continues to maintain heightened surveillance and preparedness measures to protect the public from potential Ebola transmission.
It added that it is working closely with relevant authorities and development partners to strengthen cross-border surveillance, improve information sharing and ensure rapid detection and management of any potential public health threats.
The development comes as Uganda maintains close vigilance along its borders following the Ebola case reported in neighbouring Kenya.
Health authorities have urged the public to remain calm and rely on official information while continuing to observe recommended public health measures.
The ministry also commended health workers, development partners, security agencies and other stakeholders for their continued support in strengthening Uganda’s health security.
The statement was signed by Prof. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, who said the ministry would continue monitoring the situation and strengthening preparedness.
The ministry encouraged members of the public to seek information through official channels and report any suspected public health threats promptly.
