Uganda declares Ebola outbreak over after 42 days without a new case

Uganda has successfully contained its Ebola outbreak, marking a significant public health achievement after 42 days passed without any new confirmed cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) jointly announced the end of the epidemic on Friday, following the release of the last Ebola patient on July 16, 2026. This 42-day period, double the virus's incubation period, signifies that transmission has ceased.

Authorities maintained strict surveillance and control measures even after the last imported case was discharged to ensure no undetected transmission chains remained. The outbreak was initially declared on May 15, linked to the ongoing epidemic in the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Uganda confirmed 20 cases of the Bundibugyo virus, with 15 cases imported from the DRC and five locally acquired among contacts and healthcare workers.

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Uganda has demonstrated that with decisive action, Ebola outbreaks can be brought under control quickly.

Out of the 20 confirmed cases, 18 patients recovered, while two succumbed to the virus. The containment was attributed to early detection, contact tracing, isolation, treatment, infection prevention, community engagement, and enhanced surveillance at health facilities and entry points. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus praised Uganda's response, highlighting how preparedness, rapid detection, and effective surveillance can control Ebola outbreaks. He emphasized the role of robust surveillance and border management in preventing further spread while facilitating safe movement.

Despite Uganda's success, the Ebola outbreak continues to be a major concern in the DRC, where it has spread across multiple provinces and become the largest recorded in the country's history. The DRC has reported thousands of confirmed cases and deaths. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the Africa CDC, commended Uganda's decisive leadership and community involvement, urging continued intensified response efforts in the DRC to protect regional health security.

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Uganda’s success demonstrated the importance of decisive leadership, community involvement, and accessible public health systems in stopping Ebola transmission.