Uganda: Discharges SVD survivors

Following two consecutive negative tests 72 hours apart, eight patients in Uganda have been successfully discharged from treatment for Sudan Virus Disease (SVD). These individuals were treated at specialist treatment centres in Kampala and Mbale. Currently, 216 contacts remain under active surveillance in designated quarantine facilities. Since the outbreak was declared on 30 January 2025, the Ugandan health authorities, in collaboration with WHO and partner organizations, have implemented a multi-faceted containment strategy that includes early case detection, clinical management, infection control, and public health education. WHO has deployed 47 health emergency experts, delivered seven tonnes of essential medical supplies, and supported the establishment of an 84-bed isolation unit at Mulago National Hospital. A vaccination trial has been launched, and research into potential therapeutic interventions is ongoing. Public health efforts are also focused on countering misinformation, improving risk communication, and encouraging early health-seeking behaviour. Survivors continue to receive psychosocial support and undergo routine medical check-ups at designated post-recovery clinics. SVD, caused by Orthoebolavirus sudanense, remains a highly lethal infection with historical case fatality rates ranging from 41% to 100% and no currently approved vaccines or antiviral treatments. However, timely administration of supportive care has been shown to improve patient survival.