Uganda is grappling with its eighth outbreak of the Sudan virus disease (SUDV), with health officials confirming a case fatality rate of 29%. Since the outbreak was declared in late January 2025, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has reported 14 cases, including four deaths.
As of March 5, 2025, 192 new contacts have been identified and are currently under monitoring in Kampala, Ntoroko, and Wakiso, raising concerns over potential further spread.
History and Severity of the Sudan Virus
The Sudan virus was first identified in 1976 in Sudan. This marks the eighth recorded outbreak, with five occurring in Uganda and three in Sudan. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Sudan virus disease as a severe and often fatal illness, belonging to the same family as Ebola virus disease (EVD).
Despite ongoing research, there is currently no licensed treatment for SUDV. However, promising candidate therapeutics and vaccines are under development.
Uganda’s Response to the Outbreak
The Ugandan Ministry of Health has intensified its efforts to contain the outbreak. The MoH has scaled up case management strategies to ensure adequate care for suspected and confirmed cases. Health facilities in identified hot spots are increasing their response capacity to prevent further transmission.
According to the WHO’s Disease Outbreak News (558), published on March 8, 2025, health officials warn that “the risk of potential serious public health impact is high.” In response, Uganda’s health authorities are reinforcing surveillance, contact tracing, and infection prevention measures.
Vaccine and Treatment Developments
Currently, two vaccines licensed against the Zaire strain of Ebola will not provide cross-protection against the Sudan virus. However, since 2020, one vaccine and two candidate therapeutics—a monoclonal antibody and an antiviral—have been recommended for use in Uganda. These treatments are now being assessed through randomized clinical trials.
While several promising therapeutics are advancing in development, no approved vaccine is yet available to combat SUDV effectively. Experts continue to emphasize the importance of preventive measures to mitigate the outbreak.
International Travel Advisories
The WHO currently advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions on Uganda. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 2 Travel Health Advisory for Uganda in February 2025.
The CDC urges visitors to exercise caution, avoid contact with sick individuals, and refrain from exposure to bodily fluids, including blood and semen from recovered EVD patients, until tests confirm the absence of the virus.
Ongoing Monitoring and Prevention Measures
Health experts continue to stress the need for vigilance in affected regions. The WHO and Uganda’s health authorities are working closely to control the spread through public awareness campaigns, rapid testing, and containment efforts.
As the situation develops, health officials encourage the public to adhere to safety guidelines and report any symptoms promptly.
For the latest updates on this outbreak, visit Daljoog News.