Health authorities in Uganda has declared an outbreak of Ebola after a case of the Sudan ebolavirus was confirmed in Mubende district in the central part of the country.
The Uganda Virus Research Institute confirmed the case after testing a sample taken from a 24-year-old male.
The World Health Organization, WHO Regional Director Dr Moeti Matshidiso who disclosed this to media said it follows an investigation by the National Rapid Response team of six suspicious deaths that have occurred in the district this month. There are currently eight suspected cases who are receiving care in a health facility.
Dr Matshidiso explained that it was the first time in more than a decade that Uganda would be recording an outbreak of Sudan ebolavirus.
She said WHO is helping Ugandan health authorities with the investigation, staff support to the affected area and dispatch if supplies to support the care of patients.
Ebola is a severe, often fatal illness affecting humans and other primates and has previously caused large outbreaks.
