Canada is closely watching a serious Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda, but the national health authority has stated that there are no plans for a travel ban or widespread testing of travelers. The outbreak, which was officially confirmed last Friday, has led to the deaths of at least 134 individuals in Congo, with over 500 suspected cases and 33 confirmed cases in the country, as well as two confirmed cases in neighboring Uganda.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) mentioned in an email to CBC News on Tuesday that it is adhering to guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding border measures. While no specific travel-related health measures have been implemented for Ebola at Canadian borders, PHAC is collaborating with domestic and international partners to monitor the situation and update travel health advice accordingly.
In contrast, the United States has announced enhanced screening procedures for individuals arriving from affected regions and has imposed restrictions on non-U.S. passport holders who have recently been in Uganda, Congo, or South Sudan.
WHO’s director general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has expressed significant concerns about the rapid spread of the outbreak. He declared the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus a public health emergency of international concern, marking the first time such a declaration was made by a WHO chief before convening an emergency committee.
Experts are alarmed by the outbreak’s ability to spread undetected for weeks in densely populated areas affected by widespread armed violence. Ebola, a highly contagious disease transmitted through bodily fluids like blood, vomit, or semen, causes severe and often fatal symptoms including fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.
The Bundibugyo strain of the virus currently circulating in this outbreak has no specific treatments or vaccines. Historically, WHO has reported a death rate of 30 to 50 percent associated with this strain in past outbreaks.
Infectious disease scientist Darryl Falzarano predicts that the number of cases could reach 1,000 by the end of the week as the outbreak continues to escalate. PHAC advises travelers who experience Ebola symptoms during their flight or upon arrival in Canada to notify their flight attendant. The Canada Border Services Agency officers are responsible for screening international travelers and referring suspected cases to PHAC Quarantine Officers as necessary.
PHAC has recommended enhanced health precautions for travelers to Congo, including using personal protective equipment and considering postponing travel. For those heading to Uganda, they are advised to follow outbreak monitoring alerts and avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms.
