Uganda Celebrates End of Ebola Outbreak with Last Patient Discharge

Sun Sep 06 2026 06:03:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Uganda has discharged its final Ebola patient, marking the end of the outbreak and a 42‑day window before the country is declared Ebola‑free.

Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi described the discharge of the last Ebola patient as a "moment of joy," ending the country's latest outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain. Following early detection, isolation, and contact tracing launched after a May import case from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda now faces a 42‑day countdown to official Ebola‑free status. Despite the victory, officials urge vigilance and immediate medical attention for symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding. The outbreak claimed 20 confirmed cases and two deaths, and has highlighted the importance of robust health protocols and international coordination.

Uganda Celebrates End of Ebola Outbreak with Last Patient Discharge

Medical staff at Uganda hospital as patient is discharged

The final patient treated for Ebola was discharged from a Ugandan hospital, marking a triumph for the country’s public‑health system and ending the latest outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain.

During a ceremony in Kampala, Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi called the event a "moment of joy" and praised the swift response of Uganda’s health services.

The outbreak began in May when a man who had travelled from the Democratic Republic of Congo was confirmed positive for the virus. Uganda’s officials rapidly deployed strict screening, isolation and contact‑tracing protocols to contain further spread.

The United States extended travel restrictions on citizens who had visited the DRC, and Ugandan authorities have been enhanced in their approach to monitoring and treatment following lessons from past outbreaks.

With the patient discharged, Uganda enters a 42‑day countdown before it can be officially declared Ebola‑free, provided no new infections occur. The health minister emphasised that “early detection, prompt treatment and a strong health system” are key to defeating the disease.

Authorities continue to urge vigilance: anyone experiencing fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding should seek immediate medical care.

During this outbreak Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases, mostly among travellers from the DRC, and two deaths. The country’s previous experience with Ebola has enabled it to execute well‑established protocols, including patient isolation, contact tracing and targeted public‑health messages.

This milestone demonstrates that coordinated medical response, early intervention, and high public awareness can overcome one of the world’s most feared diseases.