In response to the recent Sudan Ebola Virus Disease outbreak confirmed on January 30, the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced an additional $2 million fund to aid Uganda. These funds, released from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies, supplement Uganda’s ongoing efforts in disease surveillance, laboratory management, logistical support, infection prevention, control in hospitals and treatment centres, and relevant research. This announcement follows WHO’s previous allocation of $1 million in response to Uganda’s quick outbreak declaration. The WHO commends Uganda’s promptness and its proactive measures to identify cases, isolate sufferers, provide care, curtail the virus spread, and protect the general population.
Historically, there have been eight outbreaks of the Sudan virus disease, with Uganda reporting the last outbreak in 2022. Five of these have occurred in Uganda, highlighting the country’s extensive experience in managing public health emergencies. Leveraging this expertise, Ugandan health authorities and WHO representatives are escalating measures to halt the current outbreak expeditiously. Despite its severity and often fatal nature, Sudan virus disease (caused by Orthoebolavirus Sudanese) case fatality rates varied from 41% to 100% in past outbreaks.
Recent reports reveal six new Ebola instances in Uganda, resulting in an overall count of nine laboratory-confirmed infections, including one fatality, according to Uganda’s Ministry of Health. At present, seven patients are receiving treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala, while one is lodged at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in eastern Uganda. In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has quarantined 265 contacts and put rigorous follow-up measures into action.
The Ministry has also intensified surveillance, amplified public health risk communications, and consolidated community engagement to contain the virus spread. Public reassurance reinforces that the situation remains under control and there are no travel restrictions, but vigilance is encouraged.
Uganda recently commenced vaccinations using 2160 doses donated by WHO. This trial, the first of its kind for the Sudan Ebola strain, aims to assess the candidate vaccine’s clinical efficacy. The preparation and initiation of this trial was facilitated in four days at Mulago National Referral Hospital, showcasing Uganda’s devoted health workers, comprehensive community involvement, and concerted research efforts by various institutions.
At present, no approved treatments or vaccines exist for the Sudan Ebola strain. Nonetheless, early supportive care initiation significantly reduces mortality, as per WHO guidelines.