WHO declares Uganda Ebola-free after 42 days without new case

Uganda has been officially declared Ebola-free after 42 days without a new confirmed case, marking the end of an outbreak that saw 20 confirmed cases, 18 recoveries, and 2 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) praised Uganda's response, recognizing decisive action, surveillance, and preparedness as key factors in containing the outbreak.

The country's last case was an imported patient discharged on July 16, and local transmission was interrupted just a week later. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended Uganda's efforts, stating that the country showed that Ebola outbreaks can be quickly controlled with decisive action. However, the end of Uganda's outbreak does not signify the end of the regional threat.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to experience an active outbreak of the Bundibugyo virus, with transmission ongoing in northeastern parts of the country. WHO emphasizes the need for continued international coordination and cooperation to address the DRC outbreak, as the two nations share close social and economic ties that could facilitate the spread of the virus.

WHO stresses that Uganda's success should be protected, and the region must maintain surveillance, testing capacity, and strong infection-prevention measures to prevent imported infections. While WHO does not recommend broad travel or trade restrictions, it advises countries to maintain international movement while implementing proportionate public-health measures to support early detection and preparedness.

Uganda's response, including strengthened surveillance and rapid investigation of suspected cases, highlights the importance of maintaining outbreak preparedness before an emergency occurs. The organizations reaffirm their commitment to supporting Uganda and the DRC under a joint continental preparedness and response plan, recognizing the region's ongoing need for surveillance and cross-border preparedness efforts.