Africa CDC Urges Stronger Border Screening Amid Ebola Outbreak

Dr Kaseya said protecting public health and maintaining the movement of people and goods must go hand in hand.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has called on African Union member states to strengthen health screening and surveillance measures at airports, seaports and major land border crossings as part of efforts to contain the ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola virus outbreak.

In a communication sent to Health Ministers across the continent, Africa CDC Director General Dr Jean Kaseya urged governments to adopt coordinated and science-based public health measures that reduce the risk of cross-border transmission while allowing travel, trade and humanitarian operations to continue safely. The organisation stressed that the goal is not to impose travel restrictions but to strengthen early detection and response mechanisms that can help prevent further spread of the disease.

Focus on Early Detection and Safe Travel

Africa CDC is encouraging countries to enhance non-invasive health screening for travellers, deploy trained personnel at points of entry and strengthen referral systems for individuals showing symptoms associated with Ebola or other infectious diseases. Authorities have also been advised to improve public health communication for travellers and transport operators while ensuring timely reporting through national and continental surveillance systems.

According to Africa CDC, effective exit screening serves as a practical tool that helps identify potential cases early, supports safer travel and builds confidence among communities, governments and international partners. The agency emphasised that strong surveillance measures can reduce health risks without disrupting economic activity or international mobility.

Greater Coordination Across Sectors

The agency has called for closer cooperation among Ministries of Health, civil aviation authorities, immigration services, port authorities, security agencies and other institutions responsible for border management. Dr Kaseya said protecting public health and maintaining the movement of people and goods must go hand in hand. He noted that science-based screening measures can help countries manage risks effectively while avoiding unnecessary restrictions on travel and trade.

Africa CDC has also released interim guidance to assist member states in strengthening surveillance at points of entry. The recommendations include health declaration systems, temperature screening, trained response teams, isolation and referral procedures, infection prevention measures and stronger cross-border coordination.

International Support and Continental Response

The call comes as international efforts to contain the outbreak continue to gather momentum. Africa CDC welcomed the recent visit of European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, to affected regions and Addis Ababa, describing it as a demonstration of cooperation between Africa and Europe in addressing public health emergencies.

Africa CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners have pledged technical support, training and operational assistance to countries requiring additional capacity to strengthen border health systems. The appeal also comes ahead of a High-Level Meeting of African Heads of State and development partners scheduled for 16 June 2026. The gathering is expected to focus on mobilizing political support, resources and coordinated action to accelerate outbreak containment efforts and strengthen preparedness across the continent.

Africa CDC reiterated that transparent information sharing, coordinated public health action and evidence-based interventions remain essential for protecting lives, supporting affected countries and maintaining confidence in regional and international health systems.