Experts probe suspected Viral Hemorrhagic Fever death in Amuria

AMURIA - Health authorities in Amuria District are investigating a suspected Viral Hemorrhagic Fever case following the death of a patient at Asamuk Health Centre III.

According to the District Health Officer, Godfrey Opolot, the patient was admitted to the health facility on Thursday, May 28, at about 1:00 PM after presenting symptoms including severe headache, cough, and nose bleeding.

The patient later passed away at around 9:00 PM the same day.

In a communication issued on Friday afternoon, Opolot said the District Rapid Response Team was immediately activated to manage the situation and prevent any possible spread of infection.

“A specimen was collected and dispatched to the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) this morning, May 29, 2026, for confirmatory testing. Results are expected within 72 hours,” Opolot said.

He added that the deceased was accorded a dignified and safe burial conducted by trained health workers in line with national Ebola prevention and control guidelines.
Health officials emphasised that investigations are still ongoing and urged the public to remain calm as they await laboratory results.

This comes shortly after another suspected Ebola case was reported in Kumi District, where test results are expected next week.

According to the Ministry of Health, Uganda has so far registered nine confirmed Ebola cases, with six active cases currently under management. Two patients have recovered, while one death has been recorded. The ministry has also listed more than 500 contacts for monitoring.

Health workers in Amuria are encouraging members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report anyone showing symptoms such as unexplained bleeding, high fever, or sudden illness.

Residents have also been advised to maintain good hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and minimising unnecessary physical contact.

Meanwhile, health workers have been urged to maintain a high level of alertness, quickly isolate suspected cases, and avoid overcrowding in health facilities as a precautionary measure.

Authorities say the situation remains under close monitoring and that the public will continue receiving updates as more information becomes available.