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Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever in Democratic Republic of Congo (Update)

20 Sep 2012

As of 15 September 2012, 46 cases (14 laboratory confirmed, 32 probable) with Ebola haemorrhagic fever (EHF) have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Of these 19 have been fatal (6 confirmed, 13 probable).

The cases reported are from two health zones of Isiro and Viadana in Haut-Uélé district in Province Orientale. Additionally, 26 suspected cases have been reported and are being investigated.

The MoH continues to work with partners to control the outbreak. Active epidemiological investigation is being done to identify all possible chains of transmission of the illness, and ensure that appropriate measures are immediately taken to interrupt the transmission, and stop the outbreak.

Advice for Travellers

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk for travellers and EU citizens residing in the country:

"The risk of residents and travellers becoming infected or developing the disease is extremely low, unless there has been direct contact with blood, bodily fluids of dead or living infected persons or animals. As a precautionary measure, EU citizens in DRC should avoid such contact. Travellers returning from tropical countries should always seek rapid medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms (such as fever, headache or general malaise) within three weeks after return."

WHO does not recommend that any travel or trade restrictions are applied to DRC.