Outbreak of Ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Update 18)
19 Aug 2019
The World Health Organisation 
reports ongong transmission of ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo in North Kivu and Ituri Provinces. Three cases have now been identified in Mwenga Health Zone (South Kivu) which is outside the main outbreak area.
As of 18 August 2019 there have been 2 877 cases, with 1 934 deaths, the great majorty of these in North Kivu Province. On 17 July 2019, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Importance (PHEIC) This recognises the scale of the outbreak and the challenges involved in responding to it, while calling for further international support.
Advice to travellers
When Ebola outbreaks occur, generally the risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low.
If you return from an Ebola outbreak area you should seek rapid medical attention if you develop flu-like symptoms (such as fever, headache, diarrhoea or general malaise) within 21 days after return. You should call NHS24 (Scotland) or NHS111 (England and Wales) or contact your GP by telephone. While Ebola virus disease is unlikely, you should mention any potential exposure to the virus including dates and itinerary of travel.
For further information see Viral Haemorrhagic Fever.