Dr Chris Baryomunsi confirms Uganda begins 42-day countdown following the discharge of the last Ebola patient.
Uganda has initiated a 42-day countdown to potentially be declared Ebola-free after discharging its last confirmed patient, according to statements made by Dr Chris Baryomunsi. While the nation celebrated this milestone, officials stressed that vigilance remains paramount due to the ongoing outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The initial outbreak in Uganda saw 20 confirmed cases and two deaths. Experts noted that the country’s low fatality rate is credited to sustained investment in preparedness and established protocols. Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO’s representative in Uganda, praised these proactive measures. Despite this progress, the threat persists across the border. As part of increased caution, the US announced that US citizens returning from the DRC must observe a mandatory 21-day stay in a third country. Uganda is continuing to collaborate with the DRC, deploying health experts to manage the larger crisis there. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate care for any symptoms like fever or vomiting.