Uganda Closes DRC Border Amid Ebola Outbreak Concerns

Uganda has announced a temporary closure of its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in response to an Ebola outbreak. The closure was confirmed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Diana Atwin, during a press briefing.

Uganda has recorded seven cases of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has prompted the government to take strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Atwin stated that humanitarian operations, food cargo transport, and security personnel will be permitted to cross the border, provided they undergo strict health screening and monitoring measures.

Additionally, a mandatory 21-day quarantine will be enforced for individuals arriving from DRC, with supervision from health district surveillance teams. Regular health checks will also be conducted for students attending schools located near the border.

The outbreak in DRC has resulted in 220 suspected deaths and 900 suspected cases, leading the World Health Organization to declare it an international emergency.