KISORO. Shock and anxiety have gripped people in Kisoro District following the isolation of two suspected Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases at Kisoro Hospital.
The development comes amid heightened concern over a deadly Ebola outbreak in neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has reportedly claimed more than 150 lives.
EVD is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever that affects humans and primates, primarily spreading through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. The ongoing outbreak in eastern DRC has prompted Ugandan authorities to ramp up vigilance, especially in border districts like Kisoro.
According to Kisoro District Assistant Health Officer and Disease Control Surveillance Focal Person, Nick Muneza, the two suspected cases—one Ugandan and one Congolese national—were admitted to Kisoro Hospital on Wednesday and are currently under isolation. Samples from both patients have been sent to the Uganda Virus Research Institute’s certified national reference laboratories for testing.
Muneza clarified that the two individuals have not yet been confirmed positive or negative for Ebola but were isolated because they displayed symptoms consistent with the disease. He assured the public that the results will be communicated as soon as they are available and urged residents to remain calm and adhere strictly to Ebola prevention measures, including regular handwashing, use of sanitizers, and practicing good hygiene, especially during public gatherings.
Meanwhile, Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Sebyalla advised residents traveling to the DRC to exercise extra caution. He also called on the public to promptly report any suspected Ebola cases or individuals exhibiting symptoms to the district Ebola task force or nearby health officials for swift response.
Border controls and standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been tightened at entry points between Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the DRC in response to the crisis. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent a possible outbreak in Uganda.