Abstract
CONTEXT
Sudan Virus (SUDV) is one of the five filoviruses of the genus Ebolavirus. In September 2022, an outbreak of SUDV was declared in Uganda, a country that has experienced several Ebola outbreaks over the past two decades.
METHODS
Using the line list of cases from the Ministry of Health, we aimed to describe the timeline and geographic spread of SUDV cases during the 2022 outbreak, their demographic features, and case fatality rates, in relation to contextual elements and the operational response.
RESULTS
Three aspects of this outbreak are highlighted and discussed: 1. Population mobility and the geographic spread of SUDV cases, 2. A superspreading event in a small rural town, and 3. The difficulty of early detection of Ebola virus disease (EVD), especially in children. Based on these observations, we raise some operational questions and suggest possible interventions to better cope with the challenges experienced by the healthcare system during Ebola outbreak responses.
CONCLUSION
Prior to, during, and after Ebola outbreaks, continuing efforts are needed to improve preparedness of the healthcare system for better outbreak control and quality of care.
KEY MESSAGE
Although rapidly controlled, the 2022 SUDV outbreak revealed both successful approaches and remaining challenges that should inform ongoing preparedness efforts for future epidemics.
This abstract is not to be quoted for publication.
