The Ministry of Health wishes to update the general public on the Ebola situation in the country. The cumulative total is 149 patients with 37 deaths.
Two people are currently admitted in Bundibugyo Hospital and none in Kikyo Health Centre. One patient recovered and was discharged from Bundibugyo Hospital.
The Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to avoid unnecessary movements and gatherings especially in the districts around Bundibugyo i.e. Kabarole, Kasese, Hoima, Kibaale, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Ibanda, Bushenyi and Mbarara.
As we end the festive season, all District Health Officers, In charges of Health Units and the general public should not relax but continue being on alert and immediately report any suspected cases. Similarly, the public is reminded to report to Health Facilities any persons who present with the following symptoms:
Very high fever of sudden onset, diarrhoea, vomiting associated with red eyes and a measles-like rash. Ebola is spread by close contact with body fluids of infected persons or people who have died of Ebola. Anybody handling suspected cases must use appropriate protective wear and must wash his/her hands thoroughly with soap and water or JIK and water.
The Ministry assures the general public that the epidemic is still confined in Bundibugyo district and is getting contained. The public is urged to be compassionate and provide care and support to persons that have been discharged. I wish to thank all those who have provided support to the discharged patients. Let us continue. These people are not infectious and therefore should not be discriminated against. The public should continue to be vigilant but without creating unnecessary fear and panic. The Central Alert Team will continue to respond to all alert cases brought to our attention. The numbers to contact remain the same as; Police Mobile 111 or 999 Police control room, Ministry of Health, 0772 587567, 0414 345108.
Dr. Sam Zaramba
DIRECTOR GENERAL OF HEALTH SERVICES