DRC Tightens Travel Rules Over Ebola

The Democratic Republic of Congo has introduced stricter travel restrictions to help contain the spread of Ebola after France confirmed its first imported case linked to the country’s ongoing outbreak.

A health ministry decree signed on June 24 requires anyone identified as a contact of a confirmed or suspected Ebola patient to complete a mandatory 21-day health monitoring period from their last exposure. During that period, they are prohibited from travelling within the country or abroad unless authorised by health authorities.

The measures also apply to healthcare workers, laboratory personnel and Ebola response teams returning from affected areas. They must complete the 21-day monitoring period and receive official clearance before travelling internationally.

Authorities also require anyone who has stayed in an Ebola-affected province to remain outside the affected area for at least 21 days before becoming eligible for international travel.

Under the new rules, all departing international passengers must complete a health declaration form issued by border health officials, while airlines are required to verify compliance before boarding.

The restrictions follow France’s confirmation of an Ebola case involving a humanitarian doctor who travelled on a commercial flight from Kinshasa without symptoms but became ill during the journey, prompting concerns about cross-border transmission.

The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has infected 1,118 people and claimed 291 lives, according to the latest figures released by the Congolese government. Health authorities say there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain. The source of the outbreak has not yet been determined.

SOURCE: Reuters