By Our Staff Reporter

May 15, 2026.
The Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease in Uganda following the death of a 59-year-old Congolese national who had been admitted at Kibuli Muslim Hospital in Kampala.

According to the Ministry, the patient was admitted on May 11, 2026, after presenting symptoms including respiratory distress, fever, nausea, epigastric pain, and difficulty passing urine. Health officials revealed that his condition later worsened, and he passed away on May 14 while receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Laboratory tests conducted at the Central Emergency Surveillance and Response laboratory in Wandegeya later confirmed the presence of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease. Authorities clarified that the case is considered an imported infection from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Uganda has not yet registered a locally transmitted case.

In response, the Ministry of Health has immediately activated national emergency response mechanisms to contain any possible spread of the virus. Screening and surveillance teams have been deployed at both official and unofficial border points, especially along western Uganda and major transit routes.

Health authorities have also strengthened preparedness measures in high-risk districts, including the deployment of a mobile laboratory at Bwera Hospital, intensified infection prevention protocols, and risk communication campaigns aimed at sensitizing communities.

The Ministry further confirmed that one high-risk contact linked to the deceased has already been isolated, while all identified contacts are currently under quarantine and close monitoring.

Officials have urged health workers across the country to maintain heightened vigilance and strictly observe infection prevention guidelines when handling suspected cases. Private health facilities have also been advised to report any suspected Ebola-related symptoms to district health authorities immediately.

The public has been encouraged to practice regular hand washing, avoid direct contact with body fluids of infected persons, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, or unexplained bleeding develop.

The Ministry emphasized that Ebola is a severe viral disease but can be controlled through early detection, isolation of cases, and strict public health measures.

Ugandans have been reassured that the government is fully engaged and working closely with health partners to prevent further spread of the disease while continuing to provide timely updates to the public.

For suspected Ebola cases, the Ministry of Health has advised the public to contact the toll-free line 0800-100-066 or send a free SMS to 6767.