Ugandan health authorities have moved swiftly to reassure the public following a confirmed Ebola-related death involving a cross-border case from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to an official statement issued on May 15, 2026, a Congolese national who had entered Uganda died from the virus at a hospital in Kampala on May 14.
Authorities said the body was immediately returned to the DRC the same day in line with established cross-border health protocols.
The Ministry of Health said the situation remains under control, noting that rapid response teams were immediately deployed to trace all individuals who may have come into contact with the deceased, including healthcare workers, relatives, and other close contacts.
“We have successfully traced all known contacts, and there is no cause for alarm. The situation has been contained,” the Ministry stated.
Uganda has previously handled multiple Ebola outbreaks through aggressive surveillance, rapid isolation of suspected cases, public sensitization campaigns, and coordinated cross-border monitoring, particularly in areas neighboring the DRC where outbreaks have periodically emerged.
Despite assurances that the incident has been contained, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
Symptoms of Ebola include sudden fever, fatigue, chest pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, and yellowing of the eyes.
“Early reporting saves lives. If you notice any unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention,” a health official emphasized.
Authorities also reiterated the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of transmission.
Members of the public have been advised to regularly wash their hands with soap and clean water, avoid contact with bodily fluids, and observe proper personal and community hygiene.
“Simple actions like washing hands and avoiding exposure to bodily fluids can significantly reduce the risk of transmission,” the statement added.
While the latest case serves as a reminder of the persistent risk posed by infectious diseases in the region, authorities maintain that Uganda remains well-prepared and that there is currently no immediate threat to the wider public.
