On January 29, 2025, Uganda’s Ministry of Health declared an Ebola outbreak in the capital city, Kampala, following the death of a 32-year-old male nurse from the Sudan virus strain. This marks Uganda’s eighth Ebola outbreak since 2000. As of writing, there are no confirmed cases outside of Uganda.
In response, on 6th February 2025, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory about the outbreak of Ebola disease in Uganda, confirming it was caused by the Sudan virus (species Orthoebolavirus sudanense), as well as issuing travel guidance.
Travel Guidance: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/level2/ebola-uganda
Index Case and Transmission Concerns
The index case, a nurse at Mulago National Referral Hospital, developed symptoms including high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and bleeding from multiple sites. He sought treatment at multiple facilities, including Mulago Referral Hospital in Kampala, Saidina Abubakar Islamic Hospital in Wakiso District, and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in Mbale City. He also consulted a traditional healer. His extensive movement while symptomatic has raised concerns about potential widespread transmission.
Current Case Count and Contact Tracing
As of February 7, 2025, seven confirmed cases have been reported, with one death. Health authorities have identified 44 contacts, including 30 healthcare workers, who are now under monitoring. The World Health Organization (WHO) has allocated $1 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to support Uganda’s response efforts.
Vaccine Development and Clinical Trials
In response to the outbreak, Uganda has initiated a clinical trial for a vaccine targeting the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus. The trial, developed by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), is being conducted by the Makerere Lung Institute, which has received approximately 2,460 doses. The vaccine is being administered to contacts of confirmed cases in a ring vaccination approach.
International Response and Travel Advisories
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel alert for Uganda, advising travelers to practice enhanced precautions. Travelers are urged to avoid contact with symptomatic individuals and to monitor their health for 21 days after leaving the affected areas. The CDC has also issued a Health Alert Network advisory to inform U.S. healthcare workers and public health departments about the outbreak and to provide guidance on case identification and testing.
Background on Sudan Virus and Previous Outbreaks
The Sudan virus is one of four viruses known to cause Ebola disease in humans. It is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals. The average case fatality rate for Sudan virus disease is approximately 50%. Uganda’s most recent Ebola outbreak occurred in 2022, resulting in 164 cases and 55 deaths.
Public Health Recommendations
Health officials emphasize the importance of early detection and isolation of cases, rigorous contact tracing, and adherence to infection prevention and control measures. The public is advised to avoid contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with Ebola and to report any suspected cases to health authorities promptly.
The situation is evolving, and health authorities are closely monitoring developments to implement necessary measures to control the outbreak.
