Uganda bans mass gatherings to control Ebola spread

Uganda has imposed a ban on mass public gatherings in an effort to control the spread of the Ebola virus in the East African nation. In a circular issued on Wednesday (27 May) local time, the Ugandan Ministry of Health stated that activities attracting large crowds—including music concerts, cultural festivals, protests, political mobilisation events, marathons, and cross-border marketing activities—are prohibited. ‘These activities heighten the risk by promoting close physical interaction, uncontrolled mass mixing, and unnecessary mobility, which could facilitate Ebola transmission if infected individuals are present,’ the statement read. The ministry noted that official, institutional, and other essential meetings may still proceed provided organisers strictly adhere to standard Ebola prevention operating procedures. For approved events, organisers must ensure controlled attendance to prevent overcrowding, enforce handwashing or alcohol-based hand sanitiser use, conduct temperature checks upon entry, and appoint a responsible person to oversee compliance with Ebola prevention measures. Security forces and district authorities have been instructed to enforce these measures rigorously, particularly in high-risk and border areas, to restrict non-essential movement and prevent further disease spread. The ministry reported seven confirmed Ebola cases, though the number of close contacts linked to these cases has increased.