Uganda Intensifies Ebola Screening at DRC Border Amid Outbreak Concerns

Uganda is bolstering screening measures at its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo due to an Ebola outbreak. While formal checkpoints have enhanced precautions, concerns persist over informal crossings. The WHO has declared a global health emergency.

Thu May 21 2026

Uganda Bolsters Border Screening Amid Ebola Outbreak

Uganda has escalated its screening measures at its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in response to an ongoing Ebola outbreak in the neighboring country. At the Busunga border crossing, health workers are diligently checking the temperatures and sanitizing every individual entering Uganda. The government confirms that additional precautions are in place at official border points along the extensive 800-kilometer frontier, though significant concerns remain regarding the potential spread through informal crossings.

Uganda's Response and Regional Collaboration in Ebola Fight

The World Health Organization (W.H.O.) has declared a global health emergency following the Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC and Uganda. Nearly 150 people have died as DRC and Uganda battle the outbreak, with Uganda reporting two cases and one death. The Ugandan government has quarantined 127 people, including several health workers and other contacts of patients. Uganda is also collaborating closely with the DRC, planning to send its experts to the affected region to offer assistance. However, the Congolese Health Minister has stated that the current Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus causing the outbreak has no vaccine or specific treatment, adding to anxieties. Furthermore, Rwanda has closed its border crossing with eastern DRC over fears of a potential regional spread of Ebola.

*Source: YouTube: Al Jazeera English (2026-05-21)*

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