Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Uganda’s Minister of Health, has warned against exhuming Ebola victims for cultural or religious burials, emphasizing that such actions pose a severe public health risk.
Her warning follows an incident in Namagumba Parish, Northern City Division, Mbale City, where relatives of a 32-year-old nurse attempted to exhume his body for an Islamic burial. The deceased, a Mulago National Referral Hospital employee, died from Ebola last month. Authorities and health experts intervened in time to stop the exhumation.
Strict Ebola Burial Protocols in Place
Dr. Aceng stressed that safe and dignified burials are critical in preventing Ebola transmission. She explained that:
- Health workers place the deceased in a sealed body bag to limit exposure.
- A few relatives can identify the body from a distance before burial.
- The burial takes place under supervision, with limited family attendance.
The Ministry of Health confirmed the Sudan Ebola virus outbreak on January 30, marking Uganda’s eighth recorded Ebola outbreak.
Government Reassures Public of Effective Containment
Dr. Aceng reassured Ugandans that the government has experience handling epidemics. She urged communities to:
- Report suspected Ebola cases immediately to health authorities.
- Avoid physical contact with individuals showing symptoms.
- Continue tourism and trade, as the outbreak remains localized and under control.
Currently, seven individuals who had contact with the deceased nurse remain under quarantine at Mbale City Health Centre III. Dr. Dan Mwayafu, acting director of Mbale Regional Hospital, confirmed that medical teams will monitor their health until the end of the incubation period.
Suspected Ebola Case in Namisindwa District
Health officials are also investigating a suspected Ebola-related death in Namisindwa District. The patient, who was admitted to Bukhabusi Health Centre III, showed Ebola-like symptoms, including bleeding from all body openings, before passing away.
Authorities transferred the body to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for testing at Entebbe government laboratories. Mr. Stephen Masai Wasu, Namisindwa’s acting Health Officer, urged the public to remain calm as they await results.
If the tests confirm Ebola, officials will trace and quarantine all contacts at home and in the health facility to prevent further spread.
Authorities Urge Vigilance as Containment Efforts Continue
Dr. Moses Mugonyi, Mbale City Health Officer, assured residents that health teams have the situation under control. Meanwhile, Ms. Juliet Namara, Namisindwa Resident District Commissioner, emphasized the importance of tracing all possible contacts to curb the spread.
Uganda remains committed to strict containment measures. Health officials continue to urge the public to comply with safety protocols, which remain essential in preventing a wider outbreak.
