Insights on the Current Sudan Virus Disease Outbreak in Uganda

Uganda is facing its sixth outbreak of Sudan virus disease (SVD), with confirmed cases increasing to nine, including one death. SVD is part of the ortho-Ebolavirus family and can be deadly with a high case-fatality rate. Currently, there are no approved vaccines, but human trials are underway following the arrival of trial doses in Kampala. WHO guidelines are in place to navigate treatment strategies during this outbreak.

The current Sudan virus disease (SVD) outbreak in Uganda marks its sixth occurrence, following the previous outbreak in 2022 that resulted in 77 deaths. As of late January, the confirmed cases have risen to nine, with a 32-year-old male nurse being identified as the first case and the sole death at this point.

SVD is a viral hemorrhagic fever within the ortho-Ebolavirus family, characterized by severe symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, and bleeding. Historically, it has a high fatality rate of 41% to 70%. This disease spreads via infected bodily fluids and contaminated surfaces, prompting the recommendation of stringent hygiene practices including thorough handwashing and minimal contact with symptomatic individuals.

Despite similarities with Ebola, current Ebola vaccines do not effectively combat the Sudan strain due to differences in their genetic and protein structures. In response to this outbreak, human vaccine trials are ongoing in Uganda, with 2,160 doses of a trial vaccine recently delivered to Kampala.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has yet to approve a vaccine specifically for SVD, although it provided guidelines on therapeutics for Ebola virus disease in 2022. Prior clinical trials during Ebola outbreaks showcased the potential for scientific rigor in challenging environments. Uganda had access to candidate vaccines during the last outbreak, but trials could not be conducted until its conclusion in January 2023.

The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative has initiated Phase I testing for SVD vaccines in Uganda, which is crucial given the number of cases and fatalities from previous outbreaks. The collaboration between health authorities and WHO aims to bring effective solutions to manage and control the ongoing outbreak.

This outbreak of Sudan virus disease in Uganda is a critical public health issue, characterized by rising case numbers and significant historical mortality. Ongoing vaccine trials represent a proactive response to the outbreak, which emphasizes the need for effective vaccination strategies and public health interventions to prevent future occurrences. Ensuring rigorous testing and following WHO guidelines will be essential in managing this health crisis.

Original Source: www.okayafrica.com