The Government of Uganda has announced a series of strict emergency measures aimed at preventing the spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) into the country following an outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to a statement issued by Diana Atwine, the permanent secretary ministry of health, Uganda has so far confirmed two imported Ebola cases involving Congolese nationals who arrived from the DRC after exposure to the virus.
Dr. Atwine said one patient died while the second patient remains under medical care and is steadily recovering after twice testing negative for Ebola on May 18 and May 20, 2026. She noted that the patient is now being treated for other existing health conditions.
She further revealed that 127 contacts linked to the confirmed cases have been identified and placed under institutional quarantine as part of ongoing containment efforts.
According to Dr. Atwine, the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has a fatality rate of approximately 50 percent and currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
The Ministry warned that Uganda remains at high risk of additional imported cases due to close trade, transport and social connections with the DRC.
High-risk areas identified include Kasese, Ntoroko, Bundibugyo, Kabarole, Bunyangabu, Kisoro, Kikuube, Kamwenge, Kyegegwa, Hoima, Buliisa, Wakiso, Kampala, Kiryandongo, Lamwo, Isingiro, Arua, Nebbi, Pakwach, Zombo, Moyo, Koboko, Maracha, Yumbe, Obongi, Madi-Okollo and Kanungu.
Dr. Atwine said the National Task Force chaired by Vice President Jessica Alupo has already activated emergency preparedness and response measures across the country.
Among the immediate directives announced are the temporary suspension of all flights between Uganda and the DRC within 48 hours, suspension of cross-border public transport and ferry services on River Semliki for four weeks, except for cargo and food transportation.
Government has also temporarily suspended cultural celebrations, commemorations and weekly markets in high-risk border districts to minimize large gatherings that could accelerate transmission.
The Ministry further ordered intensified border patrols, enhanced screening and testing at border points, improved death reporting systems and strict enforcement of health Standard Operating Procedures in schools, markets, hotels, prisons and places of worship.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant, adhere to all health guidance issued by the Ministry of Health, and promptly report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility,” Dr. Atwine said.
She added that Uganda will continue working closely with regional partners to strengthen diagnostics, treatment infrastructure and technical cooperation aimed at controlling the outbreak at its source in the DRC.