Uganda started a vaccination trial on Monday for the Ebola Sudan virus four days after an outbreak was confirmed, the World Health Organisation announced, beginning with those deemed at highest risk.
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the Ugandan health ministry had “started a vaccine trial against Ebola Sudan virus” with the UN agency’s support.
“This vaccination trial was initiated with record speed… while ensuring full compliance with international and national regulatory and ethical requirements,” Tedros said on X.
He said the trial would involve “contacts of people with the disease, and contacts of the contacts”.
The WHO chief posted a picture of an injection being administered with WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan present at the scene.
The trial, said Tedros, “demonstrates the importance of investing in R&D for vaccines and treatments and outbreak response preparedness, as well as partnerships”.
“WHO will continue supporting the government in a comprehensive response to bring the outbreak under control.”