GOAL NextGen representative Shadia Nambasa has called on Ugandans to rely on verified information, follow Ministry of Health guidelines, and support Ebola survivors without stigma as the country continues efforts to keep case numbers low.
Speaking during a public awareness segment on Salam TV, Nambasa stressed the importance of understanding how Ebola spreads, recognising symptoms early, and strictly adhering to prevention measures issued by health authorities.
Citing Ministry of Health data, she said recovery is possible with timely treatment.
“Out of 20 people who got infected with Ebola, 15 people are now well recovered,” she said, adding that improved outcomes reflect better community compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
She explained that SOPs include regular handwashing, maintaining physical distancing where recommended, and promptly reporting suspected cases through the Ministry of Health’s toll-free reporting channels.
“When we continue to follow SOPs, Ebola can be brought under control in our country,” she said.
Nambasa also urged the public to avoid discrimination against survivors, saying recovered patients pose no risk to their communities.
“When the Ministry of Health discharges people who have recovered from Ebola, we should welcome them wholeheartedly because they are fully cured,” she said.
On prevention in public spaces, she called on schools and institutions to maintain handwashing facilities with soap and water, noting that such measures help reduce transmission risks.
She also encouraged parents to continue routine childhood immunisation programmes despite the presence of Ebola.
“The presence of Ebola is not a reason for parents to stop vaccinating their children,” she said.
Nambasa outlined common Ebola symptoms that require urgent medical attention, including high fever, severe headache, general body weakness and bleeding from body openings, urging the public to report cases immediately.
She concluded with a call for responsible information sharing.
“Facts save lives. Fear does not. Report symptoms early,” she said.
The Ministry of Health and World Health Organisation continue to advise the public to seek verified medical guidance and report suspected cases through official channels, including the national toll-free line and emergency reporting systems.
