Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon: Movement restrictions imposed in places in response to a disease outbreak in Kie-Ntem Province in early February

Event

As of Feb. 10, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon officials have recently enforced movement restrictions in places response to a disease outbreak in Equatorial Guinea's Kie-Ntem Province. A hemorrhagic fever outbreak has reportedly killed up to 20 people across the province. Authorities imposed a 48-hour curfew in the province Feb. 8; it is unclear whether the lockdown remains in force as of late Feb. 10. In southern Cameroon, officials have restricted movement along the border with Equatorial Guinea, citing unexplained fatalities in some localities in Kie-Ntem. Increased contact tracing is in place at the border. Further details are unavailable.

Local officials in Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon could implement localized curfews and additional restrictive measures at short notice in response to health assessments. Disruptions to cross-border movement are likely in the coming days. Residents affected by restrictions could protest the government's response. Clashes between protesters and police are possible.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and prepare for enhanced screenings at the shared border. Observe strict health precautions, including frequent handwashing with soap and water or with hand sanitizer. Where possible, limit exposure to crowds, including markets and other areas where large numbers of people congregate. Stay away from any locations where bushmeat is collected, butchered, or sold. Avoid contact with animals and items that may have come in contact with an infected person's blood or bodily fluids. Avoid all protests.