Uganda’s government has unveiled plans to vaccinate over 10,000 high-risk health workers starting in May 2024 in an effort to bolster its defenses against the Ebola virus. This preventive vaccination campaign aims to protect frontline workers in 20 districts, particularly those along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as well as select areas in Kampala city.
Lt. Col. Dr. Henry Kyobe Bosa, representing the Ministry of Health (MOH), received a significant donation of 25,060 doses of Johnson & Johnson’s Ebola vaccine. Dr. Kyobe, an epidemiologist and leader of the Ebola response taskforce, emphasized the importance of proactive measures in the face of potential outbreaks, citing the devastating impact of the Sudanese strain in 2022.
The decision to initiate the vaccination campaign follows meticulous risk assessments conducted by health authorities. Identified frontline workers in districts bordering the DRC, spanning from West Nile to Kisoro, will receive the vaccine, alongside individuals at high risk of exposure in Kampala. Dr. Kyobe underscored the necessity of thorough preparation before commencing the vaccination program in May.
Highlighting the complementary nature of vaccination to traditional preventative measures, such as contact tracing and safe burial practices, Dr. Kyobe emphasized the importance of a multi-faceted approach to Ebola response. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, administered in two doses, serves as an additional layer of defense against the Zaire strain of the virus.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu, the executive director of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), expressed readiness to spearhead the vaccination campaign as implementing partners of the program. This collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and partner organizations reflects Uganda’s proactive stance in safeguarding public health.
The vaccination initiative marks a significant step in Uganda’s preparedness against the Ebola pandemic. By prioritizing the protection of high-risk health workers, the government demonstrates its commitment to preemptive action and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
As the vaccination campaign gears up, Uganda stands poised to strengthen its resilience against infectious diseases, affirming its dedication to proactive public health interventions and safeguarding communities against emerging threats like Ebola.
