WHO Urges Caution as Uganda Beats Ebola

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warned Wednesday that Uganda remains at risk of Ebola cross-border transmission from the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, despite the country declaring an end to its local outbreak.

Uganda’s health ministry announced the end of the 2026 outbreak after 42 days since discharging its last locally transmitted case on June 16.

However, the UN agency emphasised that it will monitor Uganda for an additional 42 days following the discharge of an imported DRC case on July 16 to ensure no transmission chains persist.

Ugandan Opposition Leader Besigye in Intensive Care

Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases during the outbreak, resulting in two deaths and 18 recoveries.

Meanwhile, the DRC’s 17th Ebola outbreak—driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain for which no approved vaccines or treatments exist—has grown into the third-largest on record, with 3,360 confirmed cases and 1,487 deaths centred in Ituri province.

WHO urges caution as Uganda beats Ebola (News Central TV) — WHO urges caution as Uganda beats Ebola. Credit: Reuters

The WHO commended Ugandan health officials and communities for containing the virus but stressed that strict border surveillance remains vital while active cases continue to spread across the border.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.