Support Community-Led Ebola Containment in Uganda

Strengthening Community-Based Surveillance Through Village Health Teams

Dear Supporter,

As Ebola response activities continue across Uganda, Village Health Teams remain one of the most trusted links between communities and the formal health system. With Uganda reporting 20 confirmed Ebola cases, these dedicated volunteers continue playing an essential role in identifying potential health concerns before they become larger outbreaks. Your generous support is helping expand and strengthen this vital community surveillance network.

Village Health Teams are conducting routine household visits, educating families about Ebola symptoms, and encouraging immediate reporting of suspected illnesses. Because they live within the communities they serve, they are often the first to notice unusual health events or hear concerns from residents. This local presence enables faster communication with district surveillance officers and more timely public health responses.

Beyond surveillance, these volunteers continue promoting hand hygiene, discouraging unsafe caregiving practices, and helping families understand the importance of cooperating with contact tracing and public health guidance. Their consistent presence is helping reduce fear while building confidence in the national Ebola response.

Communities increasingly recognize Village Health Teams as trusted partners who provide reliable health information and practical support. Their work is strengthening early warning systems that are essential for controlling Ebola and other infectious diseases.

Your continued partnership is empowering these frontline community volunteers to protect lives every day. By investing in community-based surveillance, you are helping ensure that potential Ebola cases are recognized early, reported promptly, and managed before wider transmission can occur.