End of the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
25 Jun 2020
On 25 June 2020, the World Health Organisation
announced that the outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) that began in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in August 2018 is now over. Since the beginning of the outbreak there have been 3 463 cases, including 2 280 deaths.
An unrelated outbreak of EVD continues in Equateur Province in northern DRC.
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.