Atta updates members about Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo

The African Travel and Tourism Association (Atta) has issued a medical advisory to its members about the outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the outbreak of the current strain of Ebola, which is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, an international emergency.

The BBC said that at least 131 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with more than 513 cases suspected.

Virginia Messina, Atta group chief executive, said: “The Ebola outbreak remains contained to specific regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a few imported cases in Kampala, Uganda.

“The rest of the African nations remain unaffected and travel continues as normal.

“We are in close contact with the national authorities who have extensive experience and protocols from previous outbreaks including surveillance systems, rapid response teams and international coordination to try to contain this event as quickly as possible.

“WHO is advising against blanket travel barriers or restrictions. We will continue to monitor developments carefully, providing members with timely and accurate updates.”

Following WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on Sunday (May 17), Atta asked its medical advisor, Dr Richard Dawood of Fleet Street Clinic, London, to brief members on the implications for travel operations.

The briefing noted that WHO advises against border closures or blanket travel restrictions, because these measures “have no scientific basis and may worsen spread by diverting travellers to unmonitored crossings”.

The UK foreign office notes some countries have introduced heightened screening for travellers arriving from Uganda and Atta members should check entry requirements for onward destinations.

Operators are urged to monitor WHO and national health authority updates daily as the situation is evolving “rapidly”.

They should also brief guides and staff on recognising Ebola symptoms and advise clients travelling to or transiting Uganda or DRC to register with their national embassy and review travel health guidance and insurance.