NationThailand-May 24
Thailand tightens Ebola controls, requiring travelers from or through the DRC to enter 21-day quarantine even if they show no symptoms. Thailand will require travelers from or through the Democratic Republic of the Congo to enter quarantine for at least 21 days, even if they show no symptoms of illness, under tougher Ebola prevention measures agreed by a technical committee advising the Department of Disease Control (DDC).
Dr Montien Kanasawadse, director-general of the DDC, said the World Health Organization had declared the outbreak of Ebola virus disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern on May 17. He said no vaccine or officially approved treatment is currently available for the strain, while the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is showing signs of worsening. As a result, several countries have tightened surveillance of travelers from high-risk areas.
Thailand has also increased screening for travelers arriving from Ebola-affected zones. As of May 22, Thailand had recorded 10 travelers arriving from Ebola-affected areas. Eight had travelled from Uganda and two from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. All were screened on arrival and showed no symptoms.
Officials have issued orders placing all 10 travelers under observation, requiring them to report their health status continuously for 21 days. Montien urged Thai nationals planning to travel to countries declared dangerous communicable disease zones, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, to monitor the situation closely and avoid unnecessary travel. Those who need to travel should strictly follow public health advice, he said. Anyone returning to Thailand who develops a fever or unusual symptoms should seek medical attention immediately and inform doctors of their travel history. Read more at:
