Uganda Declares End to Ebola Outbreak After 42 Days Without New Cases

Uganda has officially declared an end to its latest Ebola outbreak after recording 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case.

The declaration was announced on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in joint statements by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, was declared on May 15, 2026. Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases, including 15 imported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and five locally acquired cases.

Of the 20 confirmed cases, 18 patients recovered, while two people died. Health authorities also monitored more than 800 contacts during the outbreak.

The 42-day period without a new case began after the country’s final Ebola patient was discharged on July 16. The period represents twice the virus’s maximum incubation period and is the standard used to declare an Ebola outbreak over.

WHO and Africa CDC commended Uganda’s response, which included rapid detection and treatment of cases, contact tracing, community engagement and screening at points of entry.

WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said Uganda had demonstrated that Ebola outbreaks could be brought under control through swift action and effective public health measures.

He also urged countries to avoid unnecessary travel or trade restrictions, stressing the importance of proportionate health measures and cross-border cooperation.

Despite the end of the outbreak in Uganda, health authorities warned that the region remains at risk because Ebola transmission continues in neighbouring DRC.

They urged continued surveillance, testing and cross-border coordination, particularly because of frequent population movement and trade between the two countries.