What do I need to know before I travel?
Public Health Scotland logo

Fit for Travel Logo

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

Outbreak of Ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Update 20)

31 Jan 2020

The World Health Organisation  reports continued transmission of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri provinces in Democratic Republic of the Congo.

As of 25 January 2019, a total of 3 417 EVD cases (including 2 240 deaths) have been reported. Cases have been reported from 29 health zones: Ariwara (1), Bunia (4), Komanda (56), Lolwa (6), Mambasa (82), Mandima (347), Nyakunde (2), Rwampara (8) and Tchomia (2) in Ituri Province; Alimbongo (5), Beni (710), Biena (19), Butembo (295), Goma (1), Kalunguta (198), Katwa (653), Kayna (28), Kyondo (25), Lubero (31), Mabalako (462), Manguredjipa (18), Masereka (50), Musienene (85), Mutwanga (32), Nyiragongo (3), Oicha (65), Pinga (1) and Vuhovi (103) in North Kivu Province and Mwenga (6) in South Kivu Province.

Advice to travellers

When Ebola outbreaks occur, generally the risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low. Other potentially dangerous infections such as malaria, dengue abd chikungunya are also likely to be present in outbreak areas.

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.