Uganda has entered a crucial 42-day countdown in its battle against the Sudan virus disease (SVD) outbreak, which belongs to the same family as Ebola virus disease. This is a pivotal period that will determine whether the outbreak is officially declared over.
Following the full recovery and discharge of all confirmed cases, the Ministry of Health, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, are ramping up efforts to sustain vigilance and prevent any new infections.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO and other key stakeholders, has implemented robust response measures since the outbreak was declared on 30 January 2025. These efforts include early case detection, clinical care, infection prevention and control, and intensified community engagement. With no new confirmed cases, the focus has now shifted to sustaining active surveillance and ensuring the public remains alert and engaged in prevention strategies.
The 42-day countdown – twice the maximum incubation period of the Sudan virus – serves as a critical benchmark in assessing whether transmission has been successfully halted. If no further infections occur during this period, the outbreak can be officially declared over.
However, experts emphasize that this is not the time for complacency. “We must remain vigilant, strengthen surveillance, enhance infection prevention and control in health facilities, and continue engaging communities,” said Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Uganda’s Minister of Health. “The patients we have discharged are safe and free of the disease, and we urge their families and communities to welcome them back with open arms.”
To maintain momentum in the response, WHO has provided training and technical expertise in disease surveillance, contact tracing, case management, testing, and diagnostics. The Ministry of Health, in partnership with WHO, launched a groundbreaking vaccination trial soon after the outbreak began, marking a significant step in advancing research on Sudan virus disease.
Although there are no approved treatments or vaccines for SVD, early supportive care has been instrumental in reducing fatalities. The current mortality rate for this outbreak stands at 11.1%, with the index case being the only fatality. Strong community engagement has been a major factor in Uganda’s progress against the outbreak. Local leaders, health workers, and community mobilizers have played an essential role in health education, ensuring that people adhere to safety measures and seek medical care early. Public awareness campaigns continue to counter misinformation and encourage vigilance.
“This is a time for us to strengthen community collaboration,” said Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative in Uganda. “We must work together to ensure care-seeking behaviors remain strong and that no new infections arise in the coming weeks.” While Uganda celebrates the discharge of all confirmed cases, health authorities stress that the fight is not yet over.”
The government, with support from WHO and partners, is reinforcing infection prevention measures and continuing clinical reviews for recovered patients through survivor clinics. If no new cases emerge by the end of this period, Uganda will be able to declare the outbreak officially over.
“The progress we have made is a testament to the hard work, coordination, and commitment of all involved,” Dr Aceng stated. “But we cannot let up now. Continued vigilance and support from all stakeholders are essential to ensuring Uganda remains free of Sudan virus disease.”
