Government decentralises Ebola testing to improve response

ENTEBBE — In a move to accelerate detection and case management, the Ministry of Health and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) have decentralised Ebola testing to regional referral laboratories.

Samples that previously had to be shipped to Entebbe can now be processed in Mbarara, Mbale, Gulu, Fort Portal and Arua, reducing turnaround time from days to hours.

Ministry officials say the move strengthens the country's capacity to detect, isolate and treat Ebola cases at the earliest possible stage and supports the broader regional response.