Young Ugandans have been urged to take a leading role in preventing the spread of Ebola, with health advocates emphasising the importance of awareness, early response and adherence to public health guidelines.
Speaking on Salam TV’s Salam Breakfast Meeting hosted by Umar Kikaye, NextGen alumna Martha Nabatanda said youth engagement is essential in strengthening community-level prevention efforts as the Ministry of Health continues to monitor and respond to potential outbreaks.
She warned that Ebola spreads rapidly and is often fatal, calling for increased public education to help communities recognise risks and respond appropriately.
“Ebola spreads fast and is often fatal. Young people should learn about it so they can help stop it from spreading,” Nabatanda said.
She urged the public to observe basic preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded spaces during outbreaks, and following guidance issued by health authorities.
Nabatanda also provided background on the disease, noting that Ebola was first identified in 1976 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan, with the outbreak in Congo occurring near the Ebola River, which gave the virus its name.
“It’s known to spread very quickly, which is why it’s considered so dangerous,” she added.
She cautioned against home-based treatment of suspected cases, stressing the importance of immediate reporting and isolation.
“Do not treat Ebola at home. If a villager shows signs of infection, isolate them right away and alert the Ministry of Health immediately by calling toll-free 0800-100-066,” she said.
Nabatanda also called for stronger community education efforts and urged the public to avoid stigmatizing survivors, noting that individuals who recover and are cleared by health authorities do not pose a risk of transmission.
“Once the Ministry of Health clears them, they cannot transmit the virus to others,” she said.
The Salam Breakfast Meeting continues to provide a platform for health professionals and youth leaders to share verified information on pressing public health issues affecting Uganda.
