KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda has confirmed six new Ebola infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country’s latest outbreak to 15 as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the spread of the deadly virus.
According to the Ministry of Health’s latest Ebola situation update released on Tuesday, the newly confirmed infections were identified among individuals who had been traced as contacts of previously confirmed Ebola patients.
The development underscores the continued risk of transmission even as health officials expand surveillance, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns across affected areas.
The ministry said 12 confirmed Ebola patients are currently receiving treatment in designated healthcare facilities, while two patients have successfully recovered and been discharged.
Uganda declared the outbreak in May after confirming two imported Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases, including one death, raising concerns about cross-border transmission from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a larger outbreak is ongoing.
Health authorities have since moved to strengthen containment measures, particularly in high-risk districts and border regions.
The Ministry of Health revealed that 668 contacts linked to confirmed Ebola cases are currently under active monitoring.
Contact tracing remains one of the most critical tools in preventing further transmission, as health workers seek to quickly identify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus and monitor them for symptoms during the incubation period.
Officials say the latest infections were detected through ongoing surveillance efforts, highlighting the importance of rapid case identification and monitoring.
Speaking on Monday, Director General of Health Services Dr Charles Olaro urged members of the public experiencing Ebola-like symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
He noted that early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve a patient’s chances of survival.
Health experts have repeatedly stressed that prompt reporting of symptoms enables faster isolation, treatment, and contact tracing, reducing the risk of wider community transmission.
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The government has stepped up public health interventions, including community sensitisation campaigns, screening measures, and enhanced surveillance in areas considered vulnerable to transmission.
Authorities are also continuing to work with regional and international health partners to strengthen outbreak response efforts.
The latest figures come amid heightened concern across East Africa over the spread of the Ebola virus, particularly following the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Public health officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant, observe recommended health precautions, and report suspected cases promptly as Uganda seeks to prevent further spread of the disease.
