HCMC – Vietnam has increased health screening at border gates after the World Health Organization (WHO) warned of an Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda that has killed more than 80 people.
The Ministry of Health said it was strengthening quarantine and surveillance measures at border checkpoints and medical facilities to detect potential imported cases early.
According to the WHO, the outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola has been classified as a public health emergency of international concern as suspected infections and deaths continue to rise.
As of May 16, Congo had recorded eight confirmed Ebola cases, 246 suspected infections and 80 suspected Ebola-related deaths in Ituri province, the WHO reported. Uganda confirmed two cases, including one death in the capital Kampala. Both patients had traveled from Congo.
The WHO said the emergency declaration was intended to encourage countries to improve surveillance, early detection and preparedness measures. It did not mean the disease had spread globally.
The Ministry of Health advised people returning from affected areas to monitor their health for 21 days and seek medical care if symptoms develop.
Authorities also urged the public to avoid direct contact with people showing suspected Ebola symptoms, as well as blood, bodily fluids and belongings of infected patients.
Symptoms of Ebola can include fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea and bleeding. The incubation period ranges from two to 21 days.
