Ebola Threat Grows in Uganda as Experts Call for Proactive Measures

KAMPALA, Uganda — As infectious disease threats rise, public health experts stress the need for epidemic intelligence to shift from reactive to anticipatory measures. Ugandan officials and epidemiologists observe that diseases like Ebola, once deemed rare, are increasingly emerging due to human encroachment into wildlife habitats and changes in global health funding priorities.

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Herbert Kyobe, Uganda’s National Incident Commander for Epidemics, shared insights on the 2025 Sudan virus outbreak that is unfolding in the capital, Kampala. The outbreak, distinctive in its geographic emergence, represents the eighth identified instance of the Sudan virus within Uganda.

“We are facing unprecedented challenges,” said Dr. Kyobe, a Colonel in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces. “This outbreak began in an urban setting, which complicates our response and tracking efforts.”

The current outbreak was first identified within a family, with the index case being a 34-year-old male nurse, whose diagnosis came posthumously. After the nurse’s death, he inadvertently spread the virus within his family and to healthcare workers at a facility where he sought treatment, setting off a chain reaction that has seen contacts identified across 15 different districts.

“So far, we have opened two distinct chains of transmission,” Dr. Kyobe noted. “Despite the limited number of cases, the virus’s ability to jump between regions underscores the urgency of our response.”

Concurrently, Uganda is grappling with a significant mpox outbreak, further taxing its health systems as global funding becomes increasingly uncertain. “It is a precarious time for public health in Uganda, as we face simultaneous outbreaks,” Dr. Kyobe emphasized.

Over the past ten days, the country has recorded no new confirmed cases, leading health officials to maintain a heightened state of alert. “We will continue monitoring for 42 days after the last case tests negative to confirm we have curbed the virus’s spread,” Dr. Kyobe explained. The rush to control the outbreak is critical, as Uganda could experience destabilization similar to past outbreaks if not managed properly.

The public health response to Ebola has evolved markedly since the virus was first recognized over 50 years ago. “With more efficient and effective tools now, our response to outbreaks is demonstrably faster. Our recent proactive measures have shown how technology can aid our efforts,” stated Dr. Kyobe.

In this outbreak, the administration of the rVSV ring vaccination trial began within days, something remarkable compared to previous outbreaks which often took weeks to months. “Timely vaccination is crucial in preventing outbreak escalation,” he noted. Meanwhile, remdesivir has been administered effectively due to pre-existing stockpiles from earlier outbreaks.

“There is a real time urgency to prepare and stock necessary resources,” Dr. Kyobe said. “Preventive measures are essential to ensure that health systems can respond adequately should more cases arise.”

The potential for cross-border transmission of the Sudan virus has been deemed low, primarily due to comprehensive quarantining measures in place for all known contacts. Dr. Kyobe urged vigilance, asserting that health entities must consider the broader spectrum of viral hemorrhagic fevers when evaluating febrile illnesses among travelers returning from impacted regions.

The complexity of public health is often exacerbated by misinformation. “Earning the public’s trust is paramount,” Dr. Kyobe acknowledged. He emphasized the importance of delivering accurate information consistently as communities navigate these health crises. “Reliable communication can rebuild public confidence and mitigate panic,” he said.

In conclusion, Dr. Kyobe maintained that the lessons learned from this outbreak will be vital for future public health endeavors. “Documenting best practices and learning from past mistakes is essential for our ongoing fight against infectious diseases,” he stated.