New outbreak of Ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Update 1)
09 Jun 2020
On 1 June 2020, the World Health Organization
reported a new outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Mbandaka, Équateur Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This is a different area from the large outbreak that has been ongoing in the east of the country since 2018.
As of 6 June 2020, a total of 12 cases including six deaths, have been reported in Bikoro, Mbandaka and Wangata health zones.
Advice to travellers
When Ebola outbreaks occur, generally the risk of travellers becoming infected or developing Ebola virus disease is extremely low.
If you return from an Ebola outbreak area you should seek rapid medical attention if you develop flu-like symptoms (such as fever, headache, diarrhoea or general malaise) within 21 days after return. You should call NHS24 (Scotland) or NHS111 (England and Wales) or contact your GP by telephone. While Ebola virus disease is unlikely, you should mention any potential exposure to the virus including dates and itinerary of travel.
For further information see Viral Haemorrhagic Fever.