By Bunmi Yekini
KAMPALA, Uganda – Uganda has officially declared an end to its latest Ebola outbreak, less than three months after the virus was first confirmed in the capital city, Kampala.
The outbreak, confirmed on January 30, 2025, resulted in 14 reported cases—12 confirmed through laboratory testing and two classified as probable. Four deaths occurred, while 10 people successfully recovered from the infection. Health authorities identified and closely monitored 534 contacts throughout the course of the outbreak.
The final confirmed patient was discharged on March 15, 2025, setting off a mandatory 42-day countdown under World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines before the country could declare victory over the virus.
“This outbreak challenged us in new ways. It touched both urban and rural communities across the country and unfolded against the backdrop of significant global funding constraints,” said Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa. “The response demonstrated Uganda’s long-standing leadership in tackling public health emergencies. As WHO, we are extremely proud to have supported these efforts every step of the way.”
The outbreak involved the Sudan virus disease (SVD) subtype of Ebola, known for its high fatality rate—historically killing 40% of those infected. Although no licensed vaccines currently exist for SVD, Uganda, in collaboration with WHO and partners, launched a ring vaccination clinical trial within days of the outbreak declaration and administered Remdesivir treatment under emergency protocols.
Health officials credit Uganda’s quick, coordinated response for containing the virus, even amid challenging circumstances. Rapid response teams were deployed, surveillance systems were strengthened, and treatment units were set up across key locations. Border health controls, especially in Kampala and at points of entry, were also reinforced to prevent the virus from spreading beyond Uganda’s borders.
“Uganda’s leadership and resilience were crucial in containing this outbreak,” said Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative in Uganda. “From day one, WHO worked hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Health, deploying expertise, providing essential supplies, and ensuring every suspected case was investigated. The people of Uganda have shown extraordinary resolve.”
Although the outbreak has officially ended, the Ministry of Health, supported by WHO and partners, will maintain surveillance, continue to care for survivors, and strengthen emergency preparedness efforts to safeguard against future outbreaks.
This was Uganda’s second Ebola outbreak in under three years.