Uganda discharges final Ebola patient, marks end of outbreak
In a ceremony held in Kampala, health minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi described the day as a "moment of joy" after the final confirmed Ebola patient was released from treatment. The patient, a 42‑year‑old man who had sought care after returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo, had been isolated and treated for 42 days in a purpose‑built facility.
The outbreak that began in May saw 20 confirmed cases, all linked to travellers from the DRC, and resulted in two deaths. Uganda’s health authorities employed rigorous protocols – rapid screening, isolation, contact tracing and targeted public health messaging – that helped contain the spread. The country now has a 42‑day countdown before it can be officially declared Ebola‑free, contingent on no new infections emerging.
"It demonstrates that with early detection, prompt treatment and a strong health system, Ebola can be defeated," Baryomunsi said. The ministry also urges the public to remain vigilant, reminding anyone experiencing fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding to seek immediate medical care. The announcement is a significant milestone for Uganda, which has faced multiple Ebola outbreaks over the past two decades and has steadily built its response capacity.
