Authorities in the North West Nile region have intensified surveillance and public health measures following the outbreak of Ebola in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.
A regional task force comprising district health teams, local leaders and security agencies has been activated to coordinate response efforts across border districts.
According to Superintendent of Police Collins Asea, joint patrols involving the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People's Defence Forces have been deployed at key border points linking Uganda to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
“We have strengthened border surveillance and screening at all major crossing points to ensure that anyone entering the country is checked and monitored,” SP Collins Asea said.
He noted that security and health personnel are conducting daily screenings of travellers and working closely with local communities to quickly identify and report suspected Ebola cases.
Community sensitisation campaigns have also been rolled out across the region through radio talk shows and public awareness messages aired on local radio stations.
“We are continuously educating the public about the signs and symptoms of Ebola, the importance of reporting suspected cases early, and avoiding risky practices such as touching dead bodies or attending crowded gatherings,” Asea explained.
Authorities are also warning residents to remain cautious during social gatherings, including funerals, parties and religious events, which can increase the risk of disease transmission.
Despite concerns following the outbreak in eastern DR Congo, officials say the situation in North West Nile remains calm and under control.
“Currently, the situation on the ground is normal. There is no confirmed Ebola case in the region, but we remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any emergency,” Asea added.
Health officials and security agencies have assured the public that monitoring and coordination efforts will continue as Uganda seeks to prevent another cross-border Ebola outbreak.
