South Africa: Airport authorities screen travelers for fever amid DRC Ebola outbreak

Event

Media sources have reported that South African Port Health authorities are screening individuals entering the country via airports for fever due to the recent Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Longer wait times at the country's airports are possible. However, officials consider the risk of EVD transmission low in the country and no travel restrictions are currently in place as of May 24.

Context

The latest EVD outbreak was declared by government authorities on May 12 and is the eighth outbreak in the DRC since 1976. Despite a dilapidated healthcare system, international health organizations operating in the country as well as the local population are well versed in responding to the disease. This was not the situation in West Africa, where a 2014 case turned into a major epidemic that killed more than 11,000, as Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone had little prior history of Ebola outbreaks, causing a delayed reaction and lack of knowledge that allowed the outbreak to develop into a major epidemic.

EVD is extremely virulent. The disease is transmitted to humans via direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals. The disease can then be transmitted between humans and is highly contagious, particularly during the hemorrhagic phase. Ebola is characterized by the sudden onset of high fever, weakness, joint and muscle pain, and headache. A sore throat is also a common early symptom. These symptoms are followed by nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, kidney and liver failure, and, in some cases, internal and external bleeding.

Advice

Travelers in South Africa should anticipate the potential for longer wait times at the country's airports. Though the latest DRC outbreak is likely to be contained, given the highly infectious nature of the disease travelers should monitor the situation. To prevent the spread of EVD:

• Avoid contact with infected individuals and any items that have been in their close proximity
• Avoid consuming bush meat and only handle animals when wearing gloves and the appropriate protective wear
• Animal products (meat and blood) should be thoroughly cooked before consumption
• Adhere to a strict observance of hygienic precautions (wash hands regularly, etc.)
• Avoid crowded areas (stadiums, markets, train stations, etc.)
• In case of doubt, individuals should seek immediate medical attention and comply with all directives issued by local health authorities.