Uganda has temporarily closed its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo in a bid to prevent the spread of Ebola, as health authorities respond to a growing outbreak in the region.
The closure will remain in effect for four weeks. However, essential movements such as humanitarian aid, security operations, and cargo transport will still be permitted under strict controls.
Officials confirmed that Uganda has recorded a small number of Ebola cases, including at least one death, linked to the outbreak centered in eastern Congo’s Ituri province. The situation in Congo is more severe, with hundreds of suspected infections and a significant number of fatalities reported.
The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, a less common type of Ebola. The World Health Organization has classified the situation as a global health emergency due to its potential to spread across borders.
Uganda had already introduced earlier measures, including suspending public transport links with Congo. With the border now closed, any individuals granted entry into Uganda from Congo must undergo mandatory 21-day isolation to monitor for symptoms.
Health authorities say these steps are necessary to limit cross-border transmission and protect public health, as efforts continue to contain the outbreak in affected areas.
Uganda has temporarily closed its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo in a bid to prevent the spread of Ebola, as health authorities respond to a growing outbreak in the region.
The closure will remain in effect for four weeks. However, essential movements such as humanitarian aid, security operations, and cargo transport will still be permitted under strict controls.
Officials confirmed that Uganda has recorded a small number of Ebola cases, including at least one death, linked to the outbreak centered in eastern Congo’s Ituri province. The situation in Congo is more severe, with hundreds of suspected infections and a significant number of fatalities reported.
The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, a less common type of Ebola. The World Health Organization has classified the situation as a global health emergency due to its potential to spread across borders.
Uganda had already introduced earlier measures, including suspending public transport links with Congo. With the border now closed, any individuals granted entry into Uganda from Congo must undergo mandatory 21-day isolation to monitor for symptoms.
Health authorities say these steps are necessary to limit cross-border transmission and protect public health, as efforts continue to contain the outbreak in affected areas.