By Prince Obed
As Uganda continues to respond to the recent Ebola outbreak, one message stands above all others: health is more important than wealth. “I am encouraged that in the last five days, we have not registered any new Ebola infections and are instead recording recoveries. This shows that the measures we have put in place are working. However, we must remain vigilant,” President Museveni said on June 10, 2026, at State House Entebbe while updating the country on the Ebola situation.
Without good health, families, businesses, schools, places of worship and entire communities cannot thrive. Protecting lives must therefore remain our highest priority.
The current situation shows that Uganda has recorded two deaths (imported cases) and 19 Ebola cases. Fourteen of the cases are from the Democratic Republic of Congo and belong to the same family. No new Ebola case had been reported for five days as of June 10, 2026, according to the Ministry of Health.
The encouraging news is that Uganda’s response to Ebola has demonstrated the strength of our health system, the commitment of our leaders and the resilience of our people. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health and other agencies, has acted swiftly to contain the outbreak by establishing treatment facilities, strengthening surveillance and providing clear public health guidance. This timely intervention has contributed significantly to preventing widespread transmission and protecting communities across the country.
Special recognition goes to our dedicated doctors, nurses, laboratory personnel, Village Health Teams, community health workers and all frontline responders who continue to serve under challenging circumstances. Their professionalism, sacrifice and courage have saved lives and inspired confidence among Ugandans.
I also applaud the Ugandan medical teams and health officials who crossed into the Democratic Republic of Congo to support efforts to combat Ebola. Their willingness to share expertise and assist neighbouring communities reflects Uganda’s commitment to regional solidarity and public health cooperation. Diseases know no borders, and such collaboration is essential in preventing outbreaks from spreading across countries.
The progress registered so far should not make us complacent. Ebola remains a dangerous disease, but it is preventable when individuals and communities strictly follow the recommended preventive measures. Every citizen has a role to play.
First, people should avoid unnecessary physical contact. Handshakes, hugging and kissing can increase the risk of transmission when there is contact with infected body fluids. Alternative greetings such as waving should be encouraged until the threat has completely passed.
Secondly, hand hygiene remains one of the most effective defences against infectious diseases. Regular handwashing with soap and clean running water, or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers, should become a daily habit in homes, workplaces, markets, schools, places of worship and public transport facilities.
Equally important, anyone experiencing Ebola-like symptoms such as sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, severe headache, weakness, unexplained bleeding, chest pain or yellowing of the eyes should immediately seek medical attention at the nearest health facility. Such individuals should avoid attending public gatherings and should not attempt self-medication or home treatment.
Furthermore, community vigilance is essential. Families, neighbours, religious leaders, local authorities and community groups should promptly report suspected cases to health authorities. Early detection and rapid response save lives and prevent further transmission.
Organisers of public events, markets, places of worship and transport operators also have a responsibility to maintain preventive measures. Handwashing facilities, regular disinfection, proper ventilation, temperature screening where applicable and health awareness messages should remain visible and accessible to all.
The recent reports of recoveries and reduced infections demonstrate that preventive measures work when people comply with them. Uganda has defeated Ebola before through discipline, cooperation and trust in public health guidance. We can do so again.
As citizens, let us reject misinformation and rely on credible information from health authorities. Let us protect ourselves, our families and our communities by practising good hygiene and reporting symptoms early.
The fight against Ebola is not the responsibility of government alone. It is a collective responsibility that requires every Ugandan to remain alert, informed and disciplined.
We thank the Government of Uganda for its swift and decisive response. We salute the health workers on the frontlines and those extending support beyond our borders. Above all, let us remember that every preventive action we take today contributes to a healthier, safer Uganda tomorrow.
Together, through vigilance, responsibility and unity, we shall overcome Ebola once again.
The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre.
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