'Don't compare Shs80,000 allowance to human life' - Aceng tells Ebola task force

The Minister made the remarks during the meeting with members of the Ebola task force for Kyegegwa district yesterday Friday September 30. She urged the team to prioritise victims and the public over money.

"I want to appeal to health workers to first save lives. You cannot compare the allowances you’re asking for with a life. We understand the need for allowances, you cannot compare Shs80,000 with a life, let us save lives, money will come later," she said.

Moreover, she said that beliefs surrounding the virus cannot wait and need urgent sensitisation as much as victims in order to disable the spread of the virus. Myths about the virus in the public include that the virus is witchcraft due to its severity which affects medical response.

"If we are to win this war, the population should be on our side and get to know that Ebola virus disease is real not witchcraft. It's our responsibility as leaders to sensitise the public to understand Ebola signs and symptoms," she added.

She said that the virus has now spread to Kagadi district, making it the fourth district since the outbreak claimed Mubende, Kyegegwa and Kasanda districts.

At the time of her address, the confirmed cases of Ebola virus in the country was 35 and seven confirmed deaths.

In Kyegegwa district, three cases have been registered and one fatality, while 50 identified contacts and 13 samples have been taken for testing.

According to Kyegegwa Acting District Health Officer, Tedson Kadole, the district needs Shs1.2 billion to fund the Ebola response plan which is aimed at stopping the spread.