Travel Advisory in context of Ebola Disease Public Health Emergency of International Concern

In light of the reported outbreaks of Ebola Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, the World Health Organization (WHO) on 17 May, 2026, under the International Health Regulations, 2005, determined it to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Global Health Context
- On 17 May 2026, WHO declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005).
- The Africa CDC also classified it as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS).
- The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain (BDBV) of Ebola virus, which has a high mortality rate and currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments.

WHO Recommendations (22 May 2026)
- Strengthen surveillance at Points of Entry to detect, assess, report, and manage travelers with unexplained febrile illness from affected areas.
- Discourage non-essential travel to regions with documented BDBV detection.

Regional Risk
- Countries bordering DRC and Uganda, including South Sudan, are considered at high risk of transmission.
- India has not reported any cases of Bundibugyo strain Ebola virus disease.

Government of India Advisory
- Citizens are advised to avoid non-essential travel to DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.
- Travelers should remain alert to health screenings, practice strict hygiene, and seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear after travel.

Key Takeaway
This advisory is precautionary, aiming to reduce the risk of importation of Ebola into India while supporting WHO’s global containment efforts.