In December 2019, a Novel Coronavirus outbreak emerged in China. The virus is known as COVID-19 and it represents a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously known to infect humans. It is believed to be a zoonotic disease, that is a disease that is transmitted from animals to humans, however it is now being spread mainly from person to person. On 30 January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 outbreak in China a public health emergency of international concern, requiring all countries to develop capabilities for containment including active surveillance, early detection, isolation and case management, contact tracing and to facilitate reporting to WHO. Currently, the virus has infected over 40,000 people worldwide, with most cases in China, resulting in more than 900 deaths.

While there is no confirmed case of COVID-19 in Uganda, there is a risk of importation of the disease into the country. Makerere University through its Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) is working with stakeholders to support public health efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to Uganda. With support from United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and an international non-governmental organization called Resolve to Save Lives, IDI is supporting implementation of national preparedness plans for COVID-19 including adaptation of international guidelines to local context. In addition, leveraging on its ongoing efforts for prevention of Ebola virus disease, IDI is working to strengthen surveillance for COVID-19 and to implement infection prevention and control measures for health workers and the general community. Key measures include frequent cleaning of hands either with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and respiratory hygiene (covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or flexed elbow when sneezing and coughing).

Although there is no approved treatment or vaccine for COVID-19, Makerere University, through IDI and its partners has capabilities to conduct clinical research for vaccines and therapeutics prior to or during outbreaks. Makerere University remains committed to strengthening health systems and contributing towards the containment of emerging infectious diseases.

The Ministry of Health (in a Press Statement issued by the Minister of Health on 11th February 2020) further appeals to the general public to remain calm and report any suspicious cases to the nearest health facility or call the toll-free lines 0800-203-033 and 0800-100-066. The following officers may also be contacted

• Mr. Atek Kagirita on +256-782-909153
• Dr. Alan Muruta on +256-772-460297
• Dr. Bernard Opar on +256-772-469323