Thailand has introduced stricter health screening protocols for travellers coming from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, including mandatory quarantine lasting 21 days even for individuals showing no symptoms.
The decision follows the World Health Organization’s declaration on 17 May that the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola—against which there is currently no approved vaccine or treatment—constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. In response, Thailand has designated both Congo and Uganda as Ebola-affected regions.
A technical panel advising Thailand’s Department of Disease Control has recommended that all asymptomatic arrivals from these countries be placed under quarantine. Authorities say the move is aimed at reducing potential importation risks as concerns grow over cross-border transmission.
According to the Department of Disease Control’s director, Dr Montein Kanasawadse, the situation in Congo appears to be deteriorating. He noted that several countries are already stepping up monitoring and preventive measures for travellers arriving from high-risk areas, The Nation reported.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus earlier stated that more than 900 suspected Ebola cases had been reported in Congo, with at least 101 cases confirmed.
As of 22 May, Thailand had documented ten arrivals linked to the affected regions—eight from Uganda and two from Congo. Although none of the travellers displayed symptoms, all were immediately placed under a 21-day quarantine period as a precautionary step.
Meanwhile, in Congo, three Red Cross volunteers died after contracting Ebola, with infection likely occurring during contact with infected human remains.
The victims are among the earliest known fatalities linked to the current outbreak in the country. They have been identified as Ajiko Chandiru Viviane, Sezabo Katanabo and Alikana Udumusi Augustin.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies stated that the volunteers most likely became infected during body management operations in March while carrying out humanitarian duties unrelated to Ebola response efforts. At that time, the outbreak had not yet been officially detected.
They had worked in Ituri province in the northeast and died on 5, 15 and 16 May respectively, according to the organisation.
“These volunteers lost their lives while serving their communities with courage and humanity,” it added.
Health officials continue to stress that handling of Ebola victims’ bodies poses a major transmission risk, as improper or traditional burial practices can significantly spread the virus. The Red Cross says its teams are actively working in affected communities to promote safe practices and are also conducting door-to-door awareness campaigns to counter misinformation about Ebola in the region.
