Fort Portal Tourism City has intensified its Ebola preparedness and prevention measures despite Uganda recording no active confirmed cases, as neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to battle outbreaks of the disease.
The renewed efforts are aimed at preventing a possible resurgence of the Sudan Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and ensuring communities remain vigilant during the 42-day surveillance period before Uganda can officially be declared Ebola-free.
The Fort Portal City Health Department, with support from the Ministry of Health and development partners, has organized a two-day Ebola prevention and risk communication training for the City Ebola Task Force and Tooro Kingdom cultural leaders at New Fort View Hotel in Bukwali.
Speaking during the training, Fort Portal City Senior Health Educator James Mwesigwa said the city cannot afford to relax simply because Uganda has discharged its last Ebola patient.
He noted that the continued presence of Ebola cases in the neighbouring DRC keeps western Uganda at risk due to cross-border movement, calling for stronger surveillance systems, early reporting of suspected cases, and continued public awareness.
Fort Portal City Senior Communications Officer Stephen Waddell Ainganiza urged cultural institutions to integrate Ebola and HIV prevention messages into their community activities and public gatherings.
He said cultural leaders have a unique opportunity to influence behavior change and encouraged them to use their platforms to promote adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other disease prevention measures.
Complacency cited
Kabarole District Health Educator Catherine Kemigabo emphasized the importance of sustained community sensitization, warning that complacency could reverse the gains made in controlling the disease.
She urged all stakeholders to maintain active surveillance and continue educating communities on recognizing Ebola symptoms and reporting suspected cases promptly.
North Division Deputy Speaker Karungi Gorretti encouraged leaders to take advantage of popular community events, including the ongoing Amasaza football tournaments, to disseminate public health information and strengthen awareness campaigns.
Health officials maintain that although Uganda is nearing Ebola-free status, continued vigilance, community engagement and strict observance of public health measures remain essential to preventing another outbreak.