Uganda closes DR Congo border as rare Ebola cases surge
On Wednesday, Ugandan officials announced an immediate closure of the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the number of suspected Ebola cases in the DRC nears 1,000 and new infections arise in Uganda. This decision, which goes against World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, stems from heightened concerns about the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a rare variant lacking approved treatments or vaccines. A local task force made this choice following an uptick in Ugandan health workers being exposed to the virus by Congolese patients who had crossed the border prior to the outbreak declaration on May 15. Travel will be permitted only for emergencies, with anyone entering from the DRC under such circumstances required to undergo 21 days of mandatory self-isolation.
Key facts
- Uganda closed its border with the DRC on Wednesday with immediate effect.
- Suspected Ebola cases in the DRC have surged near 1,000.
- The outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain, which has no approved medicines or vaccines.
- The border closure goes against WHO guidance.
- The decision was made by a local Ebola task force.
- Ugandan health workers were exposed by Congolese patients who crossed the border before the outbreak was declared on May 15.
- Travel across the border is now only allowed for emergencies, cargo, or security reasons.
- Mandatory self-isolation for 21 days is required for anyone entering from the DRC under emergency circumstances.
Entities
Institutions
- World Health Organization
- Ministry of Health of Uganda
Locations
- Uganda
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Congo