In response to suspected Ebola cases, Fort Portal City and Kabarole District leaders have implemented stringent measures to contain the virus. Six individuals, contacts of an Ebola fatality from Ntoroko District, are currently in isolation at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, awaiting test results from the Uganda Virus Research Institute.
Kabarole Resident District Commissioner Saleh Kamba, in a letter from the Office of the President, emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and strict public health interventions. This follows a previous Ebola outbreak declaration in Kampala by the Ministry of Health in January.
Ebola, a highly contagious and deadly virus, spreads through contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, and infected animals. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pains, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting of blood, bleeding, and internal bleeding.
To prevent further transmission, authorities have mandated the following:
- Public Places: All public spaces, including places of worship, hotels, markets, schools, and transportation hubs, must install hand-washing facilities and conduct temperature screenings.
- Schools: School visitations are suspended for one month to minimize potential exposure.
- Hygiene Practices: Residents are urged to:
- Wash hands frequently with soap or sanitizer.
- Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids of suspected Ebola patients.
- Refrain from touching the bodies of Ebola victims during burials.
- Avoid physical greetings like handshakes and hugs.
- Report any suspected cases to health workers immediately.
The authorities are emphasizing the importance of these measures to protect the community from the spread of Ebola.