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Outbreak of Ebola in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Update 19)

28 Aug 2019

The Democratic Republic of the Congo Ministry of Health reports  (in French) ongoing transmission of Ebola virus disease in North Kivu, Ituri and South Kivu Provinces. As of 26 August 2019, there have been 2 983 cases with 1 994 deaths. The majority of cases are in North Kivu. The recent expansion of the outbreak into South Kivu has resulted in 5 cases, of whom 2 have died.

Since the beginning of the vaccination programme on 8 August 2018, a total of 206 050 people have been vaccinated.

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.