Top 5 Takeaways
- Outbreak of Sudan ebolavirus in Uganda: From September 18 to October 31, 2022, Uganda experienced its fifth outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) caused by Sudan ebolavirus, with 130 confirmed and 18 probable cases.
- Initial Case and Response: The outbreak began with a 26-year-old male (patient A) with no known Ebola exposure, leading to an emergency response including case finding, contact monitoring, and establishment of Ebola Treatment Units (ETUs).
- Case Statistics: Among the cases, the median patient age was 29 years, with a higher incidence in men (59%). The outbreak resulted in 61 deaths (43 confirmed cases), with a median age of 28 years among the deceased.
- Healthcare Worker Infection: Eighteen healthcare workers were infected, some linked to a surgical procedure performed on a probable EVD patient.
- Continued Transmission and Prevention Measures: The ongoing public health response includes epidemiologic investigation, caution against direct contact with infected persons or animals, and adherence to proper infection control practices, particularly for healthcare workers.
Original Article Author and Citation
Corresponding Author
Thomas Kiggundu, tkiggundu@musph.ac.ug; tkiggundu@uniph.go.ug.
Suggested Citation
Kiggundu T, Ario AR, Kadobera D, et al. Notes from the Field: Outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease Caused by Sudan ebolavirus — Uganda, August–October 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:1457–1459. DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7145a5.
Summary
The outbreak of EVD in Uganda, caused by the Sudan ebolavirus, is notable for its rapid spread and significant impact. The index case, a 26-year-old male, exhibited severe symptoms and died despite immediate medical attention. This incident triggered a comprehensive response, including the establishment of ETUs and rigorous contact monitoring.
Methods
The response involved active case finding, particularly in affected subcounties, and contact monitoring, including daily temperature checks and symptom screening. Confirmed and probable cases were identified through RT-PCR and EVD immunoglobulin M serology tests.
Discussion
This outbreak underscores the challenges in managing EVD, especially in regions with limited resources. The spread among healthcare workers highlights the need for stringent infection control practices. The lack of a vaccine for Sudan ebolavirus further complicates containment efforts.
Conclusion
Efforts to control the outbreak are ongoing, focusing on epidemiological investigation, infection control, and public awareness.
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