India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to three African countries—the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan—amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The advisory was released on May 24, 2026, following the World Health Organization's declaration of the Ebola outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also declared it a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security.
Government Measures and Public Guidance
The Ministry of Health emphasized that the advisory is a precautionary measure to protect Indian citizens from potential exposure to the Ebola virus. Travelers are advised to postpone non-essential trips to the affected regions until further notice. Those already in these countries are urged to follow strict hygiene protocols, avoid contact with symptomatic individuals, and monitor their health for 21 days after potential exposure.
International Response and Coordination
The Indian government is closely coordinating with global health agencies, including the WHO and Africa CDC, to track the outbreak's progression and implement necessary safeguards. Enhanced screening measures at airports and ports of entry for travelers arriving from affected areas have been reinforced. The Ministry also urged Indian missions in the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan to provide consular assistance to citizens in need.
The Ebola outbreak, which began in early 2026, has raised concerns due to its rapid spread across borders. Health authorities in the affected countries are working to contain the virus through vaccination campaigns, contact tracing, and public awareness initiatives. India's advisory aligns with similar travel restrictions imposed by other nations to curb the spread of the disease.
