Ebola Virus Disease in Democratic Republic of Congo (Update)

21 Oct 2014

The outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) appears to be under control. 

As of 9 October 2014, a total of 68 cases (38 confirmed, 28 probable, 2 suspected) of EVD have been reported in DCR. During this outbreak, 49 deaths have been reported, of those, 8 were healthcare workers.

A total of 852 contacts have now completed 21 day follow up. The 269 contacts currently being monitored, were last reviewed on 9 October. The last confirmed case was isolated on 4 October 2014. This outbreak is unrelated to the one ongoing in West Africa.

Advice for Travellers

The risk of travellers becoming infected or developing EVD is extremely low, unless there has been direct contact with blood or bodily fluids of dead or living infected persons or animals. Healthcare workers are at particular risk, although practising appropriate infection control should effectively prevent transmission of disease in this setting.

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.