What You Need to Know
• The World Health Organization declared Uganda Ebola-free after 42 days without new cases.
• Uganda reported a total of 20 Ebola infections, with the last confirmed case on June 21.
• The Democratic Republic of the Congo has seen a rise in Ebola cases, reaching 5,656 confirmed cases.
Uganda has been officially declared free of Ebola by the World Health Organization (WHO), confirming that the country has completed the required 42-day monitoring period without any new cases. This announcement was made during a joint press conference on August 26, 2026, with Uganda’s Ministry of Health. Uganda had previously declared the outbreak over on July 28, following its own assessment of the situation. During the outbreak, Uganda recorded 20 infections and two fatalities, with the last confirmed case reported on June 21. In contrast, the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is worsening, with confirmed cases increasing to 5,656 and 2,715 deaths reported as of August 25, 2026.
Why It Matters
This declaration from the World Health Organization is significant as it highlights Uganda’s successful management of the Ebola outbreak, which included rigorous monitoring and public health measures. The contrasting situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where cases are rising sharply, underscores the ongoing challenges in controlling Ebola in the region. Uganda’s border with the DRC, which stretches over 877 kilometers, raises concerns about cross-border transmission and the need for continued vigilance in both countries. The WHO’s support in enhancing treatment and laboratory capacity in border areas is crucial for preventing future outbreaks.
Read the Full Story →
