The last patient being treated for Ebola in Uganda has been discharged from hospital, leaving the country with no active confirmed cases of the deadly disease
At a ceremony marking the occasion Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi described it as “a moment of joy”.
The first case in this outbreak of the Bundibugyo species of the virus in Uganda was confirmed in May. The patient was a man who had travelled from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, the outbreak’s epicentre, for medical treatment.
The authorities there are battling to contain the spread and the US has extended travel restrictions on US citizens who have been to DR Congo.
In Uganda, a 42-day countdown has now begun before it can officially be declared Ebola-free, as long as no new infections emerge.
“It demonstrates that with early detection, prompt treatment and a strong health system, Ebola can be defeated,” the health minister said.
Nevertheless, his ministry has urged people to “remain vigilant”.
“If you develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding, seek immediate medical care,” it said in a statement on X.
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