Ebola outbreak: The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. This advisory comes in response to the World Health Organization’s declaration of the Ebola outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026.
The outbreak, primarily affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, has been identified as the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. As of May 21, 2026, there have been 746 suspected cases and 176 deaths reported in the DRC. Uganda has reported 85 confirmed cases, including two in Uganda, and ten deaths.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security. The WHO has recommended increased disease surveillance at Points of Entry to detect travelers with unexplained febrile illness from affected areas.
India has not reported any cases of the Bundibugyo strain. However, the government advises Indian citizens currently in or traveling to these countries to adhere strictly to local public health guidelines.
The situation remains dynamic, and the Indian government will continue to monitor developments. Citizens are advised to stay informed through official channels and follow updates from health authorities.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 25, 2026
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