Ebola hemorrhagic fever associated with novel virus strain, Uganda, 2007-2008.
During August 2007-February 2008, the novel Bundibugyo ebolavirus species was identified during an outbreak of Ebola viral hemorrhagic fever in Bundibugyo district, western Uganda. To characterize the outbreak as a requisite for determining response, we instituted a case-series investigation. We identified 192 suspected cases, of which 42 (22%) were laboratory positive for the novel species; 74 (38%) were probable, and 77 (40%) were negative. Laboratory confirmation lagged behind outbreak verification by 3 months. Bundibugyo ebolavirus was less fatal (case-fatality rate 34%) than Ebola viruses that had caused previous outbreaks in the region, and most transmission was associated with handling of dead persons without appropriate protection (adjusted odds ratio 3.83, 95% confidence interval 1.78-8.23). Our study highlights the need for maintaining a high index of suspicion for viral hemorrhagic fevers among healthcare workers, building local capacity for laboratory confirmation of viral hemorrhagic fevers, and institutionalizing standard precautions.
Wamala
Joseph F
JF
Ministry of Heath, Kampala, Uganda. j_wamala@yahoo.com
Lukwago
Luswa
L
Malimbo
Mugagga
M
Nguku
Patrick
P
Yoti
Zabulon
Z
Musenero
Monica
M
Amone
Jackson
J
Mbabazi
William
W
Nanyunja
Miriam
M
Zaramba
Sam
S
Opio
Alex
A
Lutwama
Julius J
JJ
Talisuna
Ambrose O
AO
Okware
Sam I
SI
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D029043:Ebolavirus / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D005260:Female; D019142:Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000821:virology*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors; D014454:Uganda / Q000453:epidemiology