The United States has suspended entry of some travellers for 30 days to reduce the risk of Ebola spread as international concerns rise over a new outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Monday, even as it told Americans the immediate risk was low.
What Does This Mean for South Africans?
South Africans are advised to exercise caution when travelling to affected areas, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a surge in Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak has resulted in over 2,000 cases and 1,400 deaths.
The US CDC has implemented measures to prevent the spread of the disease, including screening travellers from affected areas and restricting entry to certain individuals. The South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has also been working closely with international health authorities to monitor the situation and prevent the spread of the disease in South Africa.
Prevention Measures
To reduce the risk of Ebola transmission, the NICD recommends that travellers to affected areas take the following precautions:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid touching or handling animals that are sick or have died
- Avoid eating bushmeat or other wild game
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
As the situation continues to unfold, South Africans are advised to stay informed and follow the latest developments on the outbreak. For more information on Ebola and how to prevent its spread, visit the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
