Ministry of Health reports 16 deaths from Ebola in Uganda

Topics: Africa, Emergencies and Disasters Worldwide
August 13, 2012

Ministry of Health reports 16 deaths from Ebola in Uganda

Transmitted through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people or animals, the Ebola virus is an acute illness that causes severe viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF), muscle pains, headaches, sore throat and impaired liver and kidney function. With a fatality rate of up to 90 per cent for those who experience VHF, this dangerous condition can carry dire consequences. 

In Uganda, an Ebola outbreak continues to affect communities, causing a reported 16 deaths as of early August, according to the Ugandan Ministry of Health. As of August 2012, the government agency estimates that there have been 23 cases of the virus, though just 10 have been confirmed by lab tests.

Most recently, a case was found in an isolation facility in Kagadi on Aug. 4. Officials are working to halt the spread of Ebola by tracking individuals who came into contact with people who had confirmed cases. Some 185 people are currently being monitored for signs of the illness.

The Uganda Red Cross Society has deployed volunteers to provide aid to those affected by the disease, including setting up a facility to treat people in need in the Kagadi, Kibaale, district  and a public health campaign to raise awareness about Ebola. The Uganda Red Cross Society will increase efforts as they are needed.

When emergencies and disasters strike overseas, the Red Cross is there to help provide relief through its Red Crescent Movement. The Canadian Red Cross offers financial contributions and personnel assistance to the Red Crescent Movement to aid its international efforts.

With a generous donation, you can help support the Canadian Red Cross' efforts to train new volunteers, launch more public awareness campaigns and provide psychosocial support to individuals in need.

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