Uganda Enhances Border Control at Katuna Amid Marburg Outbreak in Rwanda

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Uganda Enhances Border Control at Katuna Amid Marburg Outbreak in Rwanda
Upon entry, travellers are required to wash their hands thoroughly as part of these SOPs | Lukia Nantaba

Uganda has implemented strict protocols to guide Rwandans on adhering to standard operating procedures

The government has tightened measures at the Katuna one-stop border post with Rwanda to prevent the spread of Marburg virus.

Katuna is one of the busiest borders between Uganda and Rwanda, facilitating a continuous flow of trade, particularly through cargo trucks, as well as daily crossings for Rwandans seeking to purchase food items in Uganda.

During a recent visit to the Katuna border, our reporter observed both trucks and individuals crossing in both directions.

Uganda has implemented strict protocols to guide Rwandans on adhering to standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Upon entry, travellers are required to wash their hands thoroughly as part of these SOPs.

A dedicated building has been established for Ugandan health officials to conduct screenings, and an emergency tent has been set up to measure temperatures for any potential suspects.

In an exclusive cross-border observation, our reporter noted that the Rwandan government has also enforced its own set of SOPs at the border.

Kabale District Health Officer Gilbert Mateeka stated that surveillance has been significantly tightened at the Katuna border, with various measures in place for all travelers.

He emphasized collaboration with Kabale Regional Referral Hospital to ensure isolation facilities are available should any cases arise.

“Kabale District, being a border district with the gazetted entry at Katuna and several porous borders, places us at a high risk of contracting Marburg," Dr Mateeke said.

"Therefore, we have intensified our surveillance, particularly at the border. We are screening anyone entering the country and have established health protocols to deal with any suspects."

He also highlighted the importance of community awareness regarding the potential threat. “We are actively engaging the community to ensure they understand the risks we are facing,” Dr. Mateeka added.

In a phone interview, Emmanuel Ainebyoona, the Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Health, explained that Uganda has an established system for handling epidemic outbreaks.

He noted that, despite Rwanda reporting its first case of Marburg on September 27, 2024, Uganda has not registered any cases, and the country remains vigilant in monitoring the situation.

The ministry has initiated screenings at various entry points, including Entebbe International Airport, for both Marburg and Mpox to prevent any potential cases from entering Uganda.

“Uganda is known for its robust response to epidemics, including Marburg. We are prepared for any suspect cases,” Ainebyoona stated, reaffirming that the country has not recorded any Marburg cases to date.

As of now, Rwanda has reported nearly 29 Marburg cases and 11 deaths, coordinating its response with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners.

There is currently no specific treatment available for Marburg virus.

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