Uganda closes its border with Congo as cases of a rare Ebola type surge

Ugandan authorities closed the border with Congo on Wednesday, citing a surge in suspected Bundibugyo Ebola cases nearing 1,000 in Congo and seven confirmed cases in Uganda, including a fatality in Kampala. The decision, effective immediately, restricts cross-border travel except for emergencies like outbreak response, cargo, or security needs, with mandatory 21-day self-isolation for authorized entrants. The rare Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccines or treatments, complicating efforts in Congo, where at least 220 suspected deaths have been reported. Congo’s health ministry confirmed 101 cases and is investigating over 3,000 potential contacts. The outbreak, declared May 15, has overwhelmed responders due to armed conflict, displaced populations, and infrastructure gaps. Uganda’s border closure defies WHO recommendations, which warn that such measures push movement to unmonitored informal crossings, increasing transmission risks. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged a ceasefire in eastern Congo to allow safe access for responders, highlighting attacks on health facilities that hinder case tracking. Uganda’s seven cases include health workers exposed to infected Congolese patients before the outbreak was declared. The country has experience with Ebola but faces challenges with the Bundibugyo strain. WHO discouraged travel restrictions, emphasizing that infected individuals should avoid international travel unless medically necessary. The border spans several hundred miles, with frequent informal crossings for trade and family visits. Congo’s response is further complicated by armed groups targeting clinics and volunteers, while residents distrustful of outsiders have obstructed awareness efforts. WHO called the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.