KAMPALA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Wednesday announced the immediate closure of its border with the neighboring eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the possible spread of the Ebola virus disease, a senior health official said.
Diana Atwine, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Health, told reporters that only authorized and essential personnel will be allowed to cross into Uganda as authorities intensify measures to contain the possible spread of the disease from eastern DRC, where the outbreak is escalating.
"The only exceptions are for authorized Ebola response teams, humanitarian operations, food and cargo transportation, and security personnel," Atwine said. "However, all these teams will be subjected to strict health screening and monitoring protocols across Uganda."
Atwine said Uganda had not recorded any new confirmed Ebola cases since the Ministry of Health issued a statement earlier this month, although authorities remain on high alert.
"The total number of cases as of right now is still at seven," she said, adding that the number of contacts linked to the confirmed cases had increased, with many of them being health workers.
According to Atwine, all travelers entering Uganda from the DRC through air or land borders will now be required to undergo mandatory self-isolation for 21 days.
The ministry has also introduced enhanced screening and traveler monitoring systems at border points and airports.
"We have introduced locator phones at border points and at all ports of entry, including the airport. These locator systems will capture detailed information on every traveler, including where they are going," Atwine said.
Meanwhile, the ministry has intensified community sensitization and public engagement campaigns on Ebola in the capital, Kampala, where the country's first case was reported.
Public awareness campaigns are also ongoing in the neighboring district of Wakiso and in border districts.
The districts share porous borders with eastern DRC, allowing frequent cross-border movement that health officials fear could accelerate the spread of the disease.
Authorities have also stepped up awareness campaigns on social media platforms to educate the public about Ebola symptoms and preventive measures.
Atwine urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases immediately. "The public is therefore asked to remain calm, vigilant, and strictly adhere to all Ministry of Health guidelines," she said. "Please report anyone presenting Ebola-like symptoms." ■