Uganda has officially declared the end of its latest Ebola outbreak, wrapping up the health emergency less than three months after the virus was detected in Kampala.

The outbreak, confirmed in January, saw 14 cases including 12 laboratory-confirmed infections and two classified as probable.

Four people lost their lives, while 10 others recovered. 

The last patient was discharged on March 15, setting off a mandatory 42-day countdown before the country could announce victory over the disease, in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) protocols. 

The government moved swiftly with support from WHO and other partners, activating emergency systems for coordination, deploying rapid response teams, strengthening surveillance, and setting up treatment units. 

Special focus was placed on Kampala and border areas to curb potential cross-border transmission.

WHO rallied over 130 national and international experts to support Uganda’s efforts, ranging from case tracking and lab testing to case management. More than 1,500 samples were processed under strict biosafety measures.

Emergency medical teams and anthropologists were also deployed to build trust with communities and combat stigma.

Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, acting WHO regional director for Africa, said “This outbreak challenged us in new ways, touching both urban and rural communities while unfolding during a time of global financial strain,” 

He further praised the leadership of Uganda in handling health emergencies.

 “Uganda’s leadership in handling health emergencies once again stood out, and WHO is proud to have supported every step.”

The outbreak was caused by the Sudan virus strain of Ebola, a dangerous type that has historically claimed four in 10 infected patients. 

“Uganda’s leadership and resilience were critical to containing this outbreak,” said Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO’s representative in Uganda. 

“From day one, we stood alongside the Ministry of Health, ensuring expertise and supplies were where they were needed most.”