Ebola Cases Confirmed in Kampala Trigger Fears of Cross-border Transmission

Ebola cases have been reportedly confirmed in Uganda’s capital, Kampala prompting effective screening Ugandans travelling to neighbouring countries.

According to emerging details, Kenya has stepped up its Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) preparedness raising concerns over potential cross-border transmission.

“To ensure a coordinated approach, we have activated the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) and repurposed the Mpox task force to oversee the Ebola response,” said, Dr. Patrick Amoth, Kenya’s Director General for Health.

Amoth noted that both national and county Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) have been strengthened to enhance response capacity.

“Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) and surge teams, including 85 trained personnel from the Africa Volunteer Health Corps, are on standby for immediate deployment if needed,” he added.

Screening measures have been enhanced at high-risk entry points such as Busia, Malaba, Suam, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with designated arrival zones established for travellers from Uganda to minimize exposure risks.

“Laboratory networks have been activated to ensure swift and accurate diagnosis of suspected cases,” Dr. Amoth stated.

However, he acknowledged challenges in the country’s preparedness efforts, citing limited stocks of Ebola-specific Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and a shortage of dedicated ambulances for safe patient referrals.

“We need to scale up healthcare worker training, mobilize additional resources, finalize the EVD preparedness and response plan, and enhance risk communication to keep the public informed and engaged,” he said.