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Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Equateur Province) (Update 2)

23 May 2018

The Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Link has reported (in French) a total of 58 cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Equateur Province. Of these cases 28 are confirmed, 21 are probable and 9 are suspected.  There have been 27 deaths.

All of the cases have been reported from three Health Zones: Bikoro (29), Iboko (22) and Wangata (7).

The cases in Wangata Health Zone are of particular concern as they are within the area of the large port city of Mbandaka.

Advice to travellers

When Ebola outbreaks occur, generally the risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low.

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.

For further information see Viral Haemorrhagic Fever.