Travel Guard Health Advisory

What is Ebola virus disease (EVD)?

Ebola virus disease is a severe illness caused by infection with viruses of the genus Ebolavirus. It can affect humans and other primates.

EVD is a serious condition with a high case fatality rate, particularly in the absence of supportive medical care. However, outcomes have improved significantly with early diagnosis, supportive treatment, and the use of vaccines and therapeutics in outbreak settings.

What strain of Ebola is involved?

Several different species (strains) of Ebola virus have been identified. The most common strains associated with outbreaks include:

• Zaire ebolavirus – Historically associated with the majority of large outbreaks and higher mortality rates.
• Sudan ebolavirus – Responsible for several outbreaks in East Africa.
• Bundibugyo ebolavirus – Associated with smaller outbreaks.

The current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been identified as Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), which is caused by the Bundibugyo ebolavirus species, one of the recognized Ebola viruses. This strain was first identified in Uganda in 2007 and has caused a limited number of outbreaks compared with the more common Zaire ebolavirus.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the current outbreak was declared by the DRC Ministry of Health on May 15, 2026, and is centered in the northeastern part of the country, particularly within Ituri Province, with transmission reported in the health zones of Mongbwalu, Rwampara and Bunia. Cases have also been reported in parts of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. Imported cases linked to travel from DRC have been identified in neighboring Uganda.

The Bundibugyo strain differs from the Zaire strain because there is currently no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment approved for routine use against it. As a result, outbreak control relies heavily on early detection, isolation of cases, contact tracing, infection prevention and control measures, safe burial practices, and community engagement.

WHO has noted that the outbreak is occurring in a complex environment affected by population movement, cross-border trade, humanitarian challenges, and insecurity, all of which can make outbreak control more difficult. Despite these challenges, international and national response teams are actively working to contain transmission and strengthen surveillance across affected areas.

Why does this matter for travelers?

Although the outbreak has attracted significant international attention, transmission remains concentrated within affected communities and healthcare settings in specific regions of eastern DRC. The risk for most international travelers remains low, particularly for those who are not working in healthcare settings or having direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids. WHO does not currently recommend general travel or trade restrictions related to the outbreak.

How does Ebola spread?

Ebola spreads through direct contact with:

• Blood or bodily fluids (such as saliva, vomit, urine, or feces) of an infected person
• Contaminated objects (e.g., needles, medical equipment)
• Infected animals (such as fruit bats or non-human primates)
• The body of a person who has died from Ebola.

Transmission occurs when the virus enters the body through broken skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

Ebola does not spread through the air, water, or food in the same way as respiratory illnesses.

What are the symptoms of Ebola?

Symptoms usually begin suddenly and may include:

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Fatigue or weakness
• Sore throat

As the illness progresses, symptoms may include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Rash
• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising (in some cases)

Symptoms typically appear between two and 21 days after exposure.

Who may be at higher risk?

The risk of Ebola infection is higher for:

• Healthcare workers caring for infected patients without appropriate protective measures.
• Family members or close contacts with infected individuals
• People participating in burial practices involving direct contact with the deceased.
• Individuals handling infected animals or bushmeat.

Travelers who do not have direct exposure to these risk factors are at very low risk.

How can I protect myself while traveling?

General precautions include:

• Avoid contact with blood or bodily fluids of any person.
• Avoid contact with individuals who are unwell with compatible symptoms.
• Avoid handling animals such as bats or primates and avoid consumption of bushmeat.
• Practice good hand hygiene (frequent handwashing or use of alcohol-based sanitizer)
• Follow local public health advice.

If traveling to areas where an outbreak is occurring, additional guidance from health authorities should be followed.

What should I do if I develop symptoms?

If you develop symptoms such as fever, weakness, or gastrointestinal illness within 21 days of travel to an affected area, you should:

• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Inform the healthcare provider about your travel history.
• Avoid close contact with others until assessed.

Early medical care improves outcomes and helps prevent further transmission.

Is testing available?

Testing for Ebola is available in specialized laboratories and is coordinated through public health systems. Testing is recommended for individuals who have compatible symptoms and a history of possible exposure. It is not routinely required for asymptomatic travelers.

Is there a vaccine?

Vaccines against Ebola are available and have been used effectively in outbreak settings, particularly for people at high risk such as healthcare workers and close contacts of confirmed cases. However, vaccine availability depends on the strain involved. As previously mentioned, there is no available vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain and outbreak control relies on methods outlined above. Vaccination is not routinely recommended for most travelers.

Should I continue traveling?

For most travelers, Ebola does not significantly affect travel plans. The risk remains very low outside of specific outbreak areas.

The current Ebola outbreak is concentrated primarily in parts of Ituri Province in northeastern DRC, with cases also reported in some areas of North Kivu and South Kivu. These areas are geographically distant from many other parts of the country and from most international travel routes.

The World Health Organization (WHO) currently advises against travel or trade restrictions related to the outbreak and does not recommend border closures. WHO advises that travelers can continue to travel provided they follow public health advice and avoid exposure to individuals with suspected or confirmed Ebola infection.

References

• World Health Organization (WHO). Ebola virus disease – Fact sheet.
  
• World Health Organization (WHO). Disease Outbreak News – Ebola.
• World Health Organization (WHO). Ebola situation reports and updates.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ebola (Ebola Virus Disease).
  
• UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Ebola virus disease: guidance and information.