A quiet ceremony in Uganda marked a historic day: the last patient being treated for Ebola was discharged from hospital, ending life‑threatening cases in the country.
The outbreak began in May when a traveller from the Democratic Republic of Congo was diagnosed with the Bundibugyo strain of the virus. Over the course of the epidemic, 20 confirmed cases were recorded in Uganda, with two fatalities.
The health ministry’s response was swift—tightened screening, isolation of suspected cases, contact tracing and targeted public‑health messages helped stop the spread. Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi described the release as a "moment of joy".
While Uganda’s borders have reopened, the United States has imposed a 21‑day quarantine for citizens returning from the DRC, reflecting global caution as the region reports more than 2,000 infections and nearly 800 deaths.
Officials now begin a 42‑day countdown. If no new cases emerge during this period, Uganda can officially be declared Ebola‑free. Meanwhile, the ministry urges people to remain vigilant: "Seek medical care immediately if you experience fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding," it says on X.
Key take‑away: Even after the last patient leaves the ward, community awareness and robust health systems are essential to keep Ebola at bay.
