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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.<\/b><\/p>\n
A 42-day countdown now begins before Uganda can officially be declared Ebola-free, as long as no new infections emerge.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
In all, Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases, mostly among visitors from DR Congo, and two deaths.<\/p>\n
There have been more than 2,000 confirmed infections and 796 deaths in DR Congo, according to government data.<\/p>\n
Speaking after Uganda’s last Ebola patient left hospital, Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi described it as “a moment of joy”.<\/p>\n
“It demonstrates that with early detection, prompt treatment and a strong health system, Ebola can be defeated.”<\/p>\n
Nevertheless, the ministry of health has urged people to “remain vigilant”.<\/p>\n
“If you develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding, seek immediate medical care,” it said in a statement on X.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n