Ebola Virus Disease in Northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) (Update 1)
30 May 2017
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued an update on the outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Bas Uele Province in north-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
As of 28 May 2017, no new confirmed or probable cases have been reported since the last case on 11 May 2017. Four new suspected cases have been reported from Muma (3) and Ngabatala (1), both locations in Likati Health Zone. Seven previous suspected cases have now been discounted following laboratory testing. One hundred and one contacts of cases are benign followed up.
In total, there have been two confirmed cases, three probable and 14 suspected cases. The outbreak currently remains confined to Likati Health Zone.
Advice to travellers
The risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low.
The following preventive measure are recommended to reduce the risk of infection:
- Avoid direct contact with blood or body fluids of a patient or a corpse and with objects possibly contaminated
- Avoid close contact with wild animals and consumption of ‘bush meat’
- Avoid having unprotected sexual intercourse
Travellers returning from tropical countries should always seek rapid medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, diarrhoea or general malaise) within three weeks after return, and be reminded to mention to their health care provider that they have recently travelled.