A confirmed case of Ebola in Fort Portal City has sparked widespread concern among residents, as health authorities scramble to contain the outbreak.
The patient, a resident of Kyegegwa, is one of six suspected cases admitted to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, all linked to a funeral in Ntoroko where an Ebola-related death was reported.
How the Outbreak Started
According to Fort Portal Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Stanley Bayole, who chairs the Ebola Task Force, the patient contracted the virus while attending a funeral in Ntoroko.
“The patient had attended a funeral in Ntoroko where an Ebola-related death had been reported,” Bayole confirmed.
Last week, health officials identified six suspected cases, all connected to the Ntoroko incident.
Samples were collected and sent for testing, with one case confirmed positive so far. The remaining test results are pending, leaving residents on edge.
Swift Containment Measures
In response to the confirmed case, health authorities have implemented stringent measures to prevent further spread. Fort Portal City Health Officer Solomon Assimwe outlined the steps being taken:
- Suspending school visitations
- Enforcing mandatory handwashing at schools and public places
- Intensifying public sensitization efforts
“We are doing everything possible to prevent further spread,” Assimwe assured.
Community Concerns
Despite these efforts, some residents have expressed concerns about the challenges of detecting infected individuals and the economic impact of staying home.
For many, daily work is essential to meet their basic needs, making compliance with containment measures difficult.
Related: Mpox Outbreak in Kyotera: 17 Cases and 2 Deaths Spark Urgent Response
National and International Response
Teams from the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are on the ground, working to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections.
Their presence underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated response.
What’s Next?
As health officials await the remaining test results, the focus remains on containment and public education.
The confirmed case in Fort Portal serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of Ebola and the importance of vigilance in preventing its spread.
