Uganda's health ministry confirmed an Ebola outbreak, marking the ninth in the country. The Sudan strain caused 14 cases, 4 deaths, and 10 recoveries. A clinical trial for a vaccine is underway. Uganda's tropical forests are natural virus reservoirs, with the first outbreak recorded in 2000. The deadliest Ebola epidemic occurred in West Africa between 2013-2016.

The announcement from the country’s health ministry came after a period of 42 days without a reported case of the disease. According to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO), “During this outbreak, there were 14 cases, 12 of which were confirmed through laboratory tests, and two were considered probable but not confirmed. Four deaths occurred, two of which were confirmed, while the other two were probable. Ten individuals recovered from the infection.”

The outbreak was linked to the Sudan strain of the virus, which currently has no licensed vaccine. However, Ugandan officials authorized a clinical trial for a vaccine under development, which is being administered to health workers and individuals who came into contact with the cases.

The outbreak was first confirmed in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, following the death of a male nurse. This marked the ninth time Uganda has detected cases of Ebola. Historically, most outbreaks in the country have been contained relatively quickly.

Ebola infections are common in Uganda, which is home to numerous tropical forests that serve as natural reservoirs for the virus. The first Ebola outbreak in Uganda was declared in the year 2000. The most deadly Ebola epidemic occurred between 2013 and 2016 in West Africa, claiming the lives of over 11,300 people.