Current situation
The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised that the Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), but does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency.
The New Zealand Ministry of Health is working closely with the World Health Organization and other partner agencies to monitor the situation. The WHO is supporting health authorities in DRC and Uganda to strengthen their public health response, including the implementation of point of entry screening and other infection prevention and control measures.
At this stage, the WHO advises there is no need for passengers returning from DRC and Uganda to be automatically screened in airports outside the affected regions. However, there are processes and systems in place to ensure any traveller who arrive in New Zealand and are unwell are checked and managed appropriately.
If you are in the DRC or Uganda, or planning to be in the region, monitor guidance issued by local health professionals and follow local media to ensure you have the latest information if you are in the affected areas. You should expect potential exit health screening, entry restrictions on travellers who have visited these countries, and enhanced health screening measures upon arrival for travellers who have visited these countries.
Prevention advice for travellers
The risk to the general public and most travellers is very low. Vaccines are currently only available for the Zaire variant of Ebola, not the Bundibugyo virus.
You can reduce your risk by:
- avoiding contact with people who are unwell
- avoiding blood and body fluids
- avoiding contact with dead bodies or unsafe funeral practices
- avoiding wild animals (including bats and primates)
- washing hands regularly with soap or sanitiser.
Follow local public health advice when travelling in affected areas.
What to do if you are concerned about Ebola
There is no simple home treatment for Ebola, but early medical care can save lives.
If you are concerned:
- seek urgent medical advice if you develop symptoms after travel to an affected area
- tell your healthcare provider about your recent travel and any possible exposure
- avoid close contact with others until you receive medical advice.
Monitor your health for up to 21 days after possible exposure.