By Joseph Kiggundu
Uganda has tightened its Ebola prevention measures, ordering a 21-day quarantine for travellers with recent travel links to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as authorities seek to prevent the disease from entering the country.
The Ministry of Health said the affected travellers will be closely monitored for symptoms throughout the quarantine period. The measures follow reports of people who travelled to the DRC, transited through Uganda and later tested positive for Ebola after arriving in other countries.
According to the ministry, one traveller suspected of having a recent travel history to the DRC passed through Uganda before testing positive for Ebola in Nigeria. Another traveller who had visited the DRC also transited through Uganda and subsequently tested positive in Kenya in early October.
To strengthen contact tracing, the ministry has directed everyone entering Uganda, regardless of their country of origin, to complete traveller locator forms. The forms will enable health authorities to identify and reach people who may have come into contact with a suspected or confirmed case.
The ministry has also stepped up infection prevention and control measures at all points of entry and exit, as well as at health facilities across the country. Nationwide Ebola surveillance is continuing to support the early detection and management of any suspected infections.
Authorities have warned that people entering Uganda through unauthorised routes risk prosecution for violating public health requirements. Communities living near border areas have also been urged to remain alert and report suspected illegal crossings to the relevant authorities to ensure that travellers are screened and monitored appropriately.
Despite the heightened precautions, the Ministry of Health said Uganda remains Ebola-free. The restrictions are intended to strengthen the country’s preparedness and reduce the risk of imported infections amid concerns about travellers linked to the DRC.
Uganda previously recorded 20 confirmed Ebola cases, including two deaths, during an outbreak that was officially declared over on August 27 after 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case. The latest measures underline the importance of continued surveillance, border screening and public cooperation in preventing another outbreak.