Uganda: Health-screening measures implemented amid DRC Ebola outbreak

Event

Ugandan officials have recently implemented additional health-screening measures at several points of entry to prevent the spread of Ebola virus disease (EVD) after an outbreak was initially declared in DRC's Béni territory (North Kivu province), near the DRC-Uganda border, on Wednesday, August 1. Additional measures have been implemented at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) and at several crossings points in districts bordering the DRC, including in the districts of Kasese, Ntoroko, Kanungu, Bundibugyo, Kisoro, and Kabarole. UN health officials have cautioned that the spread of the virus may be facilitated by the exodus of refugees from North Kivu province due to ongoing political and civil unrest. The further spread of the outbreak is possible in the coming weeks.

Context

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 should avoid areas threatened and affected by the outbreak and 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