Among the currently confirmed 15 Ebola cases in Uganda are two health workers from private health facilities in Kampala, who are undergoing treatment and isolation, according to the Ministry of Health.
Health authorities in Mukono District have stepped up measures to prevent the spread of Ebola, warning private health facilities against handling suspected cases beyond their capacity and urging greater collaboration in the district’s disease surveillance efforts.
The warning was issued during a meeting of the Mukono District Ebola Task Force, chaired by Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajat Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka, as officials reviewed preparedness and response strategies amid ongoing national efforts to contain the deadly viral disease.
Speaking at the meeting, Mukono District Health Officer Dr. Stephen Mulindwa urged private healthcare providers to work closely with government health authorities, drawing lessons from the successful coordination witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Task Force brings together district security leaders, health officials, the District Education Officer, representatives of the District NGO Forum, and several development partners and institutions to coordinate the district’s Ebola response efforts.
He emphasized that private clinics and hospitals should immediately refer patients exhibiting symptoms consistent with Ebola to designated government facilities equipped to handle suspected cases.
“Cooperation between private and public health facilities is critical if we are to effectively prevent the spread of Ebola,” Dr. Mulindwa said.
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Among the currently confirmed 15 Ebola cases in Uganda are two health workers from private health facilities in Kampala, who are undergoing treatment and isolation, according to the Ministry of Health.
The district health chief also revealed that Mukono recently registered 11 suspected Ebola cases after individuals presented symptoms associated with the disease. Samples were collected and submitted to government laboratories for testing.
“Fortunately, all the individuals tested negative for Ebola,” he said.
Ebola symptoms typically appear between two and 21 days after exposure, with most cases developing symptoms within eight to ten days. Early signs often resemble common flu-like illnesses, including high fever, severe fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, and sore throat. In severe cases, patients may develop gastrointestinal complications and internal or external bleeding.
Dr. Mulindwa also called on schools across the district to strengthen compliance with health guidelines by installing temperature screening equipment, maintaining handwashing facilities, and controlling the number of visitors and learners accessing school premises.
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RDC Ndisaba said the district’s response efforts have been bolstered by support from several development partners and institutions. These include Nama Wellness, public health students from Kyambogo University, Save the Children, Family Health International (FHI), and other organizations working alongside district authorities to strengthen surveillance and community awareness.
The RDC also appealed to Muslim pilgrims returning from Mecca and their families to observe precautionary measures aimed at reducing the risk of disease transmission. The RDC advised families to avoid physical greetings such as hugging and the exchange of flowers upon the pilgrims’ return.
District leaders said public vigilance, early reporting of suspected cases, and strict adherence to health guidelines remain key to keeping Mukono free from Ebola as the country continues its efforts to contain the outbreak.