Uganda has intensified border health checks and emergency preparedness measures following the deadly Ebola outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo strain spreading across neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. Health workers in western Uganda, particularly near Bundibugyo district, have begun screening travelers by checking temperatures and enforcing handwashing procedures to prevent the virus from crossing into local communities. The outbreak, which has already claimed more than 90 lives according to regional health authorities, has been declared an international public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Ugandan health worker Clovis Bwambale said authorities quickly began educating healthcare workers and residents about how to avoid contact with suspected Ebola patients. “When we heard the news of Ebola, we had to first tell attendants in health facilities how best they could prevent themselves from coming into contact with people suspected of having Ebola,” Bwambale explained. The current outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Health experts say the strain carries a high fatality rate and can spread rapidly through contact with infected bodily fluids. Local leaders say the region’s past experience with Ebola outbreaks could help communities respond more effectively. Ugandan politician Mbabazi Alice said residents remain concerned but believe authorities are capable of managing the situation.
“It is not the first time we have experienced this as Bundibugyo people,” she said. “I believe the government has the power to handle this issue if it breaks out again.” The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has also declared the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a Continental Public Health Emergency following rising infections and cross-border transmission risks. According to Congolese authorities, DR Congo has recorded at least 131 deaths linked to 513 suspected Ebola cases, while Uganda has confirmed one Ebola-related death involving a from DR Congo. Health officials warn that heavy cross-border movement, limited healthcare infrastructure and population mobility in the Great Lakes region increase the risk of further spread unless strict containment measures are maintained.
