HEALTH | UPDF | EBOLA 

WAKISO - The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Wilson Mbadi has commended the UPDF Chieftaincy of Medical Services for their role in fighting the deadly Ebola Virus Disease. 

Speaking to doctors, nurses and other specialists who have been treating Ebola patients at Entebbe Regional Treatment Centre on Wednesday, the army commander praised the withdrawing medics for a job well done.

The withdrawn team of 25 medics, both military and civilians, were urged to remain on standby until the country is declared Ebola-free. 

Mbadi lauded UPDF medics for cooperating with the civilian authority to curb the deadly disease, saying that the act also falls within the army's mandate of co-operating with civilian authority in emergency situations to foster harmony and understanding. 

The CDF expressed his gratitude to the US Government, Ministry of Health and other development agencies for their role in enhancing defence capabilities, including timely response to crises or pandemics.

“Your effort has enabled the investment sector to thrive without any setback. Tourists are still coming into our country since the Ebola virus has tremendously been mitigated."

Mbade said the UPDF has a vibrant health system, and acknowledged the President and Commander-In-Chief of the armed forces, Yoweri Museveni, for his role in building a professional army that has protected the country. 

The Incident Commander, Lt Col Dr. Bossa Kyobe, hailed the UPDF leadership for extending medical services to the civilian community. 

Kyobe reported that 29 cases were confirmed at the treatment unit, six of whom were children, had 25 recoveries and four confirmed deaths. 

Dr Charles Olaro, the director for clinical services in the health ministry, thanked UPDF for the patronage and sacrifice. 

On their part, medics commended UPDF for prioritizing health matters.

In addition to the constructed treatment unit, the health teams also trained medics and donated protective equipment, among others, to medics at Entebbe Regional Hospital.