KAMPALA – The Government of Uganda has announced stringent new measures to curb the spread of Ebola in districts along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The announcement was issued by the Ministry of Health’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwine, following an emergency meeting of the National Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease, chaired by the Vice President, H.E. Jessica Alupo.
The move comes as health authorities confirm two imported cases, including one fatality, from the DRC, where the deepening outbreak has prompted a public health emergency of international concern.
Speaking during a briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, Dr. Atwine confirmed that one fatality has been recorded, while the second patient is steadily recovering after testing negative for Ebola on 18th and 20th May 2026.
She revealed that 127 contacts have so far been identified and placed under institutional quarantine as part of ongoing containment efforts.
Dr. Atwine confirmed the strict measures to contain cross-border Ebola spread, including the suspension of all flights, ferry services, and cultural gatherings.
The government will halt flights to and from the DRC within 48 hours, alongside a four-week ban on cross-border buses and passenger ferries, with only goods and food transport exempted.
Border security is being intensified at porous points, while weekly markets in high-risk border sub-counties are suspended for four weeks, and large cultural celebrations in western districts are temporarily halted.
Schools in border districts will open on time but must strictly follow Ministry of Health safety procedures, with nearby health facilities providing direct support.
Surveillance has been heightened at the Katuna One Stop Border Post in Kabale District. In Kisoro District, two isolated cases have presented signs including fever and vomiting containing blood.
Dr. Dick Muneeze, a specialist at Kisoro General Hospital, confirmed that the two isolated cases remain under strict management. At all border zones, the government is intensifying mass risk awareness and Infection Prevention and Control sensitization.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant, adhere to all health guidance, and promptly report any suspected cases, including unexplained bleeding or fever, to the nearest health facility.
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