Uganda declares itself Ebola-free amid ongoing outbreak in Congo

Uganda officially declared itself free of Ebola on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone as the nation successfully managed its outbreak. The country's last Ebola patient was discharged in mid-June, and health authorities have since observed the World Health Organization-recommended 42-day period without further transmission.

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Uganda's 2026 Ebola outbreak arose from a fully documented importation event

Ugandan health officials stated that the outbreak, which involved 20 confirmed cases, originated from a documented importation event. Congolese individuals who had crossed the border seeking treatment for an unknown illness were identified as the initial cases. The Bundibugyo Ebola virus strain responsible for this outbreak has no approved vaccine or treatment, adding to the challenge.

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all identified contacts were institutionally quarantined and completed the mandatory 21-day follow-up without evidence of further transmission

Authorities implemented swift measures, including urging citizens to avoid handshakes and postponing a large religious gathering. Public transportation and flights between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo were also suspended. These actions were crucial in preventing wider community transmission within Uganda, where enhanced surveillance detected no unexplained spread.

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Enhanced surveillance has detected no unexplained community transmission.

Meanwhile, the Ebola outbreak continues to be a major concern in neighboring eastern Congo. As of the latest reports, Congo has recorded 3,262 confirmed cases and 1,437 deaths, making it one of the fastest-spreading Ebola outbreaks on record. The situation in Congo remains worrisome, with case numbers potentially surpassing previous records in the country. The ongoing crisis in Congo contrasts sharply with Uganda's success in containing the virus within its borders.

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