Uganda confirms Ebola outbreak as Africa CDC, U.S. step up response

Africa, Health

KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — Uganda’s Ministry of Health on Friday confirmed an outbreak of the highly infectious Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) involving the Bundibugyo strain, following the death of a Congolese patient in intensive care on May 14. The ministry said the case was an imported infection from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where health authorities are battling a wider outbreak.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) activated emergency response measures after laboratory tests in Ituri Province, DRC confirmed Ebola infections. Preliminary findings from the National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) in Kinshasa showed 13 of 20 samples tested positive, with the outbreak resulting in 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, mainly in Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. Four deaths have been confirmed among laboratory-positive cases, while additional suspected infections are under review in Bunia.

Africa CDC convened a high-level meeting on Thursday to strengthen cross-border surveillance, preparedness, and emergency coordination with the DRC, Uganda, South Sudan, and global partners. The agency emphasized the urgency of preventing further spread across the region.

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In Washington, U.S. health officials said they are closely monitoring the situation and providing technical assistance. CDC Acting Director Jay Bhattacharya told reporters that the agency is working through its country offices in both Uganda and the DRC to support response efforts. “CDC has extensive experience and expertise in responding to Ebola outbreaks, and we will absolutely mobilize there as needed,” he said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed it learned of suspected cases on May 5 and dispatched a team to Ituri to assist investigations. Although initial field samples tested negative, subsequent laboratory analysis confirmed the outbreak.

Ebola, which spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects, remains one of the deadliest viral diseases. Congo’s dense tropical forests are considered a natural reservoir for the virus, which can linger in survivors and resurface years later.

Health authorities across the region are urging vigilance, rapid reporting of suspected cases, and strict adherence to infection prevention protocols to contain the outbreak.