Rubirizi,Uganda – Rubirizi district officials have urged residents to stop poaching, eating bushmeat, and avoid handshakes and close physical contact to prevent Ebola, as health teams remain on alert to respond to any suspected cases.
Speaking to the media, District Health Surveillance Officer Dr. Ahimbisibwe Anna called on the public to stop eating dead animals and hunting in national parks, noting that such animals may have died from Ebola. She stressed the need for good personal and environmental hygiene at home and in workplaces to limit exposure.
The call follows the Ministry of Health’s temporary ban on handshakes and physical greetings after two Ebola cases were confirmed in Uganda.
Dr. Ahimbisibwe said Rubirizi has no confirmed cases, but health teams are trained and on high alert to identify patients with fever, vomiting, or bleeding and provide early treatment. Screening is ongoing for every patient presenting with symptoms, and isolation measures are in place. She said the district is working closely with the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and community leaders to monitor the situation daily.
She urged residents not to panic but to stay alert, noting that Ebola spreads through contact with blood and body fluids of a sick person. Preventive measures include washing hands regularly with soap and clean water, avoiding contact with dead bodies, refraining from self-medication, and reporting severe weakness to the nearest health facility immediately.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner Rwamutojo Dagaras assured residents that security teams have strengthened screening at all border points and entry routes into the district. He called for vigilance in identifying Ebola symptoms and asked health workers not to stigmatize patients.
He urged the public to remain calm, avoid rumors, and cooperate with security and health teams on any suspected cases so patients can receive timely care and treatment.
Story By: Tugume Muzafaru
_Ends_
