Lab results for Kumi suspected Ebola case expected on Monday

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A suspected Ebola patient was admitted at Atutur Hospital in Uganda's eastern district of Kumi, hospital authorities confirmed Thursday evening.

Dr. Emmanuel Ongala, the Kumi district health officer, said the patient from Nyero sub-county was received at the facility at around midday.

He said the patient was working in Mukura, Ngora district and is also a resident of Kanyum in Kumi.

“The patient and contacts are under isolation, and samples have been picked and sent to the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) for examination,” said Ongala, without disclosing the occupation of the patient.

He told New Vision on Friday that the test results are expected on Monday next week and called for calm as investigations continue.

Ebola is a viral disease transmitted to humans from infected wild animals. It also spreads from an infected person to another person.

In the meantime, Ongala directed all health facilities in Kumi to heighten vigilance and strengthen screening measures at all entry points.

“Health workers should increase their index of suspicion towards clients at all entry points in health facilities and ensure temperature guns are used to detect fevers."

Ongala also urged communities to remain alert and report any suspected cases involving unexplained bleeding or persistent fever.

“Continue with health education on the signs and symptoms of Ebola, including prevention measures, and encourage communities to report any suspected cases."

The DHO also appealed to the public to strictly observe standard operating procedures, including regular hand washing, use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers, avoiding direct body contact, and avoiding contact with blood and other body fluids.

Uganda has so far recorded seven Ebola cases since the latest outbreak was declared in neighbouring DR Congo.

Following the continued escalation in the scale of the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, Uganda has temporarily closed the border with the DRC. The only exceptions are for authorized Ebola response teams, humanitarian operations, food and cargo transportation, and security under strict health screening and monitoring protocols.

While schools in border districts are remaining open, they are required to strictly observe all Ministry of Health standard operating procedures (SOPs). 

All resident district (or city) commissioners have since been instructed to strictly ensure implementation and enforcement of all Ebola prevention and control guidelines issued by the health ministry and the national task force.

The national task force on Ebola response is chaired by the Vice-President, Jessica Alupo.