Uganda has restricted travellers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from transiting through the country, while insisting that it remains free of Ebola virus disease.
Gatekeepers News reports that the restriction is part of precautionary measures introduced amid concerns following a reported case of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease in Nigeria.
The case involved a female traveller who arrived in Nigeria from Uganda and subsequently tested positive for the virus. She reportedly sought treatment at a private health facility in Abuja before the infection was confirmed.
Ugandan health authorities have maintained that the case does not establish that the woman contracted the virus in the country, stressing that investigations are ongoing to determine the source of infection and trace her movements.
The government has also strengthened surveillance and screening measures at its entry points to prevent the possible spread of the disease.
As part of the measures, Uganda has reportedly reinstated traveller locator forms for incoming passengers and reinforced monitoring at border crossings and health facilities.
Authorities are working with their Nigerian counterparts to establish the circumstances surrounding the infection and identify anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
The development comes after Uganda experienced an outbreak of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease earlier in 2026, which was subsequently declared over following the required period without new confirmed cases.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has also faced Ebola-related concerns, prompting neighbouring countries to strengthen surveillance and cross-border monitoring.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has generally advised against imposing broad travel and trade restrictions during Ebola outbreaks, recommending surveillance, early detection and cooperation between affected countries instead.
