India issues travel advisory as WHO declares Ebola outbreak a public health emergency of international concern | Today News

LUSAKA – The global health community is on high alert after the World Health Organisation (WHO) formally declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on May 17. This critical declaration has prompted nations worldwide to reassess their travel policies, with India being among the first to issue a comprehensive travel advisory for the affected regions, including South Sudan. The advisory from New Delhi urges its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan, and for those residing there to exercise extreme caution. This proactive measure reflects the gravity of the situation, where the death toll from the highly contagious disease has tragically surpassed 200, primarily in the DRC's North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The cross-border spread into Uganda, though contained, remains a significant concern, necessitating robust surveillance and response mechanisms across neighbouring countries. For Zambia, a nation sharing a substantial border with the DRC, the declaration of a PHEIC carries profound implications. While Zambia has not reported any confirmed cases of Ebola, the porous nature of its northern border, coupled with significant cross-border trade and movement of people, places it at a heightened risk. Health authorities in Lusaka have been urged to intensify their preparedness and response efforts, including enhanced screening at points of entry, public awareness campaigns, and the equipping of health facilities to manage potential cases. The Ministry of Health has previously outlined contingency plans, but the WHO's latest pronouncement demands an even more rigorous approach. The economic ramifications for the region are also considerable. Travel restrictions and heightened health alerts can disrupt trade, tourism, and humanitarian operations, further straining already fragile economies. Zambia's trade links with the DRC are vital, and any