Synopsis
Uganda's Ministry of Health assures that the country is safe for tourism and trade despite the Ebola outbreak, which is limited to specific areas. The ongoing vaccination trial against the Sudan strain of the virus marks a significant step in combating the disease, showcasing the commitment of health officials and communities.Key Takeaways
- Uganda is safe for tourism and trade.
- The Ebola outbreak is limited to specific areas.
- Health measures are in place to control the situation.
- The WHO is conducting a vaccine trial for the Sudan strain.
- Local commitment is crucial for pandemic preparedness.
Kampala, Feb 5 (NationPress) Uganda's Ministry of Health confirmed on Wednesday that the nation is secure for tourism and trade despite an ongoing Ebola situation.
Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng addressed the press in the eastern city of Mbale, stating that the outbreak is limited to specific regions in Kampala, the nation's capital, and Mbale. Comprehensive measures have been implemented to manage and prevent further spread.
"Even with the outbreak, we do not impose restrictions on tourism, trade, or travel. The affected areas are clearly defined and not widespread across the nation," explained Aceng.
"Uganda is extremely safe. We invite tourists to visit Uganda, and we promote trade and travel. There is no Ebola threat in any areas frequented by tourists," the minister emphasized, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Recently, Uganda declared an Ebola outbreak following the death of a 32-year-old nurse from the virus. The Ministry of Health has reported that two relatives of the initial case are confirmed positive for the virus, and 234 individuals who had contact with the deceased have been identified and isolated.
On Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged that the ongoing Ebola vaccine trial in Uganda marks a significant advancement in combating the disease.
In a statement on its website, the WHO noted that the trial, which commenced with contacts of the initial Ebola case, aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a candidate vaccine against the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus.
This is the first vaccine trial specifically for the Sudan strain of Ebola.
The WHO highlighted that principal investigators from Makerere University and the government-run Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), with support from the WHO and other partners, prepared for the trial within four days at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala following the outbreak confirmation on January 30.
"This represents a vital milestone for enhancing pandemic preparedness and saving lives during outbreaks," stated WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in the announcement.
This achievement is attributed to the commitment of Uganda's health professionals, local community participation, the Ministry of Health, Makerere University, UVRI, and the collaborative research efforts involving hundreds of scientists led by the WHO.
