Uganda calls for calm after Ebola case reported in Nigeria

Uganda’s Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain calm and vigilant following reports of a confirmed Ebola case in Nigeria involving a Nigerian woman who travelled to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for business.

In a public statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry said preliminary information indicated that the woman transited through Uganda in early October without showing symptoms before developing symptoms after arriving in Nigeria.

The Ministry cautioned against drawing conclusions about where the woman contracted the virus, saying her transit through Uganda did not establish that the infection occurred in the country.

“The location of exposure remains under investigation,” the statement, signed by Prof. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, said.

Uganda is awaiting detailed information from the Nigerian government about the woman’s travel itinerary and clinical history to guide further investigations and determine whether contact tracing or other public health measures are necessary.

The Ministry emphasised that, as of October 20, Uganda had no confirmed active Ebola cases.

It also disclosed that limited provisions had been maintained for humanitarian and diplomatic movement. The Ministry, working with relevant agencies, said it would further strengthen screening and public health controls at the country’s points of entry.

The government urged the public to maintain regular handwashing and sanitising practices while remaining alert to official updates.

The Ministry said verified information would continue to be shared through its official communication channels.

Members of the public seeking information or wishing to report alerts can call the Ministry of Health hotline on 0800-100-066, send an alert SMS to 6767, or use U-Report on 8500.