Uganda begins vaccinations against Sudan virus outbreak

Uganda has confirmed an outbreak of the Sudan virus disease, following the death of a nurse who tested positive during a postmortem assessment on January 30, 2025. In response to the outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated an emergency vaccine trial, touted as the fastest rollout in an epidemic situation, aimed at protecting contacts of the deceased nurse. The trial will initially vaccinate about 40 individuals closely linked to the case, with preliminary evidence suggesting the candidate vaccine could be effective and safe. This outbreak marks Uganda's sixth occurrence of Sudan virus disease, and authorities are actively tracing and testing close contacts while investigating the source of infection. The ongoing circumstances highlight the urgent need for effective vaccines, as there are currently no licensed vaccines for the Sudan strain. WHO officials have emphasized the trial's rapid establishment as a significant step toward enhancing pandemic preparedness.