Mbabane – The Ministry of Health has placed public health emergency rapid response teams on alert and intensified disease surveillance measures across the country following an outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease (EVD) reported internationally.
In a public update, the ministry said there are currently no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in Eswatini and that the risk to the general population remains low. However, health authorities said they were maintaining a high level of preparedness to detect and respond to any potential threat.
The ministry said surveillance and event-based monitoring systems had been intensified, while screening and monitoring mechanisms at points of entry had been enhanced where necessary.
Other preparedness measures include improving laboratory readiness, strengthening specimen referral systems and enhancing rapid information-sharing procedures through national emergency structures.
Healthcare workers have also undergone training on Ebola detection, reporting, infection prevention and control measures, as well as case management.
The ministry said healthcare facilities across the country had been advised to remain vigilant for patients presenting with severe unexplained illnesses, particularly those with relevant travel histories.
Authorities are also conducting risk communication and community engagement activities to keep the public informed about the disease and preventive measures.
The ministry encouraged members of the public to maintain good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water and the use of alcohol-based sanitisers where appropriate.
People have also been advised to avoid direct contact with blood, bodily fluids and contaminated materials from sick individuals, as well as handling human remains without proper protection and guidance.
According to the ministry, anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding should seek medical attention immediately, especially if they have recently travelled to affected countries or had contact with sick individuals.
Travellers returning from countries affected by the outbreak, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, have been advised to monitor their health closely and report any symptoms without delay.
The ministry said Ebola Virus Disease is a severe viral illness transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated materials or infected animals. Early symptoms include fever, severe headaches, muscle pain, sore throat and fatigue, while advanced cases may involve vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, skin rashes and bleeding.
Health authorities said early detection, isolation and supportive medical care remain critical in improving patient outcomes and preventing the spread of the disease.
Members of the public seeking information or wishing to report unusual illnesses have been advised to contact the Ministry of Health’s toll-free line, 977.
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