Dubai: The United Arab Emirates has issued a travel advisory for several African countries as health authorities continue to monitor an Ebola outbreak that has raised concerns across the region. The warning comes as Uganda reported new Ebola infections and international health agencies intensified efforts to contain the disease and prevent its spread across borders.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised citizens and residents to avoid non essential travel to Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. The advisory was issued amid growing concern over the outbreak and the possibility of further transmission in parts of Central and East Africa.
At the same time, health authorities in the UAE and affected African countries have urged the public not to believe or share unverified information circulating on social media. Officials said false reports and rumors can create unnecessary panic and interfere with efforts to control the outbreak.
The latest figures released by Uganda's Ministry of Health show that six new Ebola cases were confirmed on June 2. This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 15 since the outbreak began. Health officials said the newly infected individuals had been in contact with previously confirmed patients.
According to the ministry, twelve people are currently receiving treatment while one person has died from the disease. Two patients have recovered and have been discharged from hospital. Authorities continue to conduct contact tracing and monitor people who may have been exposed to the virus.
Medical experts have identified the outbreak as being caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. This strain is less common than the Zaire strain that has caused several major outbreaks in the past. Health experts note that there is currently no approved vaccine specifically designed for the Bundibugyo strain, making early detection and strict public health measures especially important.
The World Health Organization has described the outbreak as a serious public health concern. In May, the agency declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern after cases were reported in both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The declaration allows for greater international cooperation and support to affected countries.
The Democratic Republic of Congo remains the country most affected by the outbreak. Health officials there have reported hundreds of confirmed infections and dozens of deaths. The situation has prompted neighboring countries and international partners to strengthen surveillance and preparedness measures.
Several countries around the world have introduced additional health screening procedures at airports and border crossings. Authorities are particularly focused on identifying travelers who may have recently visited affected areas. These measures are intended to reduce the risk of the virus spreading to new locations while allowing essential travel and trade to continue.
Public health experts continue to emphasize that Ebola is not spread through the air like influenza or COVID 19. Instead, the virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person or through contact with contaminated materials. Because of this, early isolation of patients and careful monitoring of close contacts remain the most effective tools for controlling outbreaks.
Health officials are also working to educate communities about the disease and encourage people to seek medical attention if symptoms develop. Common symptoms include fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat, which can later progress to more serious illness.
As Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo continue their efforts to contain the outbreak, international health agencies are closely monitoring developments. Authorities say public cooperation, accurate information, and strong health measures will be crucial in preventing further spread of the disease and protecting communities across the region.