Africa
Uganda is on High Alert as Ebola Spreads
According to the World Health Organization, the Ebola virus has already infected eight districts in Uganda, including Kampala, the country’s capital and most populous city.
In late September, a hemorrhagic illness epidemic was discovered.
According to the most recent WHO statistics, there are currently 157 Ebola cases in Uganda, including 52 confirmed fatalities and 21 likely fatalities.
The case mortality rate now stands at about 40% as a result.
The so-called Sudan form of Ebola, for which there are no licensed vaccinations to stop the virus from spreading, is becoming more prevalent in the nation of East Africa.
However, according to the WHO, three vaccine candidates have been found and might be examined in Ugandan randomized clinical trials.
On November 1, WHO changed the regional risk assessment for Ebola from low to high, and from high to very high for Uganda.
However, it found that the danger was still minimal on a worldwide scale.
According to health professionals, using a variety of measures is essential for effective epidemic control.
The most crucial factor, according to Diaz, is undoubtedly community involvement.
She said that in order to end the Ebola outbreak, the people must have faith in, participate in, and support the response.
She said that deliberate attempts are being made to get the neighborhood to seek medical attention if they have symptoms and to complete contact tracing.
Then, added Diaz, “if any symptom emerges, they should report it immediately so they may be examined and treated.” “I believe that if we can spread awareness of the treatment, safe care, and good care provided in Ebola treatment centers, then we can expect that these facilities will be welcoming to patients and communities, preventing any stigma or fear if someone is diagnosed.”
According to Diaz, the WHO is working on the construction of at least three additional patient facilities and is assisting the Ministry of Health of Uganda in expanding its bed capacity. More than 80 WHO specialists, according to her, are advising clinical personnel on how to provide the best treatment. She also claims that extensive training is being provided on infection prevention and control.
VOA