Ebola Virus Disease in Northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (Update 2)

According to WHO on 20 June 2017, no new confirmed, probable or suspected cases of Ebola virus disease had been reported in Bas Uele Province since the last situation update on 15 June. No new cases have been reported up the present time.

In total, there have been five confirmed and three probable cases (including 4 deaths) in Nambwa, Ngayi and Mabongo districts. The last confirmed case tested negative for the second time on 21 May 2017.

WHO advises that the risk of further cases is low but not negligible.

Advice to travellers

The risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low.

The following preventive measure are recommended to reduce the risk of infection:

• Avoid direct contact with blood or body fluids of a patient or a corpse and with objects possibly contaminated
• Avoid close contact with wild animals and consumption of ‘bush meat’
• Avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse

Travellers returning from tropical countries should always seek rapid medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, diarrhoea or general malaise) within three weeks after return, and be reminded to mention to their health care provider that they have recently travelled.

For further information see Viral Haemorrhagic Fever