Thailand tightens Ebola control measures, quarantining travelers from Congo.

VTV.vn - Thailand will require travelers arriving from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of Congo to quarantine for at least 21 days, even if they show no symptoms.

(Photo: The Nation)

Thailand's requirement to quarantine travelers arriving from or transiting through Congo is part of a series of stricter Ebola prevention measures approved by the Thai Department of Disease Control (DDC).

Dr. Montien Kanasawadse, Director-General of the DDC, stated that the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus in Congo and Uganda a public health emergency on May 17th. Currently, there is no officially approved vaccine or treatment for this virus strain, while the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is showing signs of worsening.

Therefore, some countries have tightened surveillance of travelers from high-risk areas. Thailand has implemented enhanced screening for travelers from areas affected by Ebola.

As of May 22nd, Thailand had recorded 10 tourists from Ebola-affected areas, including 8 from Uganda and 2 from Congo. All were screened upon arrival and showed no symptoms of Ebola. Thai health officials have ordered all 10 tourists to be monitored, requiring them to report their health status continuously for 21 days.

(Photo: Bangkok Post)

Mr. Montien urged Thai citizens planning to travel to countries declared as high-risk infectious disease zones, particularly Congo and Uganda, to closely monitor the situation and avoid unnecessary travel. Those who need to travel abroad should strictly adhere to public health recommendations. Anyone returning to Thailand with a fever or unusual symptoms should see a doctor immediately and inform medical personnel about their travel history.

Mr. Montien stated that the Thai Department of Disease Control has proposed guidelines on isolation, quarantine, and monitoring for travelers arriving from or transiting through countries declared as high-risk areas for Ebola virus disease. This proposal has been submitted to the technical committee under the Infectious Diseases Act 2015.

Currently, the DDC is preparing to hold discussions with the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to consider diplomatic perspectives and recommendations. These discussions aim to ensure that Thailand's disease prevention measures are appropriate, consistent with the international situation, and can be implemented as effectively as possible.

"The Department of Disease Control affirms that Thailand is ready to conduct surveillance, prevention, and response activities to public health emergencies," said Mr. Montien. He added that measures will continue to be adjusted as needed to ensure public confidence and health safety.

Source: https://vtv.vn/thai-lan-siet-kiem-soat-ebola-cach-ly-du-khach-tu-congo-100260525084926282.htm