By Moses Walimbwa
All 60 contacts traced in Uganda after a Kenyan traveller contracted Ebola have completed 21 days of monitoring without developing symptoms, but authorities are maintaining heightened border surveillance.
Health Minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi announced their discharge from follow-up in a statement issued on October 25. The contacts included personnel at entry and exit points, hotel staff and transport operators linked to the traveller’s movements.
“All identified contacts in these categories have completed their 21-day monitoring period without developing signs or symptoms consistent with the disease,” Baryomunsi said.
The milestone comes as continued transmission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sustains the risk of infections crossing borders.
WHO reported on October 23 that Kenya and Nigeria had recorded imported cases of Bundibugyo virus disease, underscoring the importance of early detection and coordinated surveillance. Investigations into the Nigerian patient’s travel history and possible source of exposure were continuing.
Uganda has intensified screening at airports and land borders. Incoming travellers must complete passenger locator forms, while listed contacts of active cases face travel restrictions until they complete the required follow-up.
Baryomunsi said Uganda remained Ebola-free as of October 25 and urged continued vigilance.
The Ministry is also working with Nigerian authorities and international partners to investigate the Nigerian case, including reviewing genomic findings and verifying the patient’s movements. The investigation has not yet established where the infection occurred.
Members of the public can report concerns through the Ministry’s toll-free hotline 0800-100-066, alert SMS 6767, or U-Report 8500.