Ebola outbreak declared over in Uganda

Uganda has declared the end of the Ebola outbreak, the second outbreak in less than three years confirmed in Kampala on 30 January 2025. The last confirmed case was discharged on 15 March 2025, thus initiating the 42 days stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to officially declare the conclusion of the outbreak. Health authorities report 14 cases, 12 of which have been laboratory-confirmed. Four have died (2 confirmed, 2 probable), and 10 have recovered, while 534 people in contact with the confirmed and probable cases are now being monitored. The Ebola strain contained in Uganda belongs to the Sudan virus disease (SVD) subtype. This strain is a severe, often fatal disease that affects humans and other primates, with an estimated case fatality rate of around 40%. The WHO’s support has enabled the Ugandan Ministry of Health to coordinate and respond effectively. This has been achieved by activating national systems, surveillance, and treatment. Border measures have also been strengthened to prevent cross-border transmission. The WHO provided particular support in case investigation, contact tracing, laboratory diagnostics, and case management. 1,500 samples were tested, with the WHO providing logistics, training, and quality assurance to ensure biosecurity. A trial for the safety and efficacy of the vaccine was initiated using the ring vaccination method. The MEURI (Monitored Emergency Use of Unregistered and Experimental Interventions) protocol was followed for the initiation of Remdesivir treatment.