Uganda has entered a crucial 42-day countdown in its battle against the Sudan virus disease (SVD) outbreak, which belongs to the same family as Ebola virus disease. This is a pivotal period that will determine whether the outbreak is officially declared over.
Following the full recovery and discharge of all confirmed cases, the Ministry of Health, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, are ramping up efforts to sustain vigilance and prevent any new infections.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO and other key stakeholders, has implemented robust response measures since the outbreak was declared on 30 January 2025. These efforts include early case detection, clinical care, infection prevention and control, and intensified community engagement. With no new confirmed cases, the focus has now shifted to sustaining active surveillance and ensuring the public remains alert and engaged in prevention strategies.
The 42-day countdown – twice the maximum incubation period of the Sudan virus – serves as a critical benchmark in assessing whether transmission has been successfully halted. If no further infections occur during this period, the outbreak can be officially declared over.