According to The World Health Organization (WHO), as of October 18, 2026, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains in active outbreak of Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease (BVD) and has reported 9,552 confirmed cases and 4,602 deaths, representing a crude case fatality ratio of 48.1%. The outbreak has affected 23 provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, although transmission levels vary across provinces and health zones.
Uganda’s 2026 Bundibugyo Ebola virus outbreak was officially declared ended by WHO on July 28, 2026 following the completion of 42 days without any new confirmed cases. A total of 21 confirmed cases were recorded during the outbreak.
On October 6, 2026 Kenya recorded its first imported case and fatality of the Bundibugyo Virus Disease (BVD). This case represents the first Ebola case ever recorded in Kenya. By October 20, 2026 nine confirmed cases have been reported, all linked to the initial imported case. On October 20, 2026 Nigeria confirmed one imported case in Abuja following travel from Uganda, with forty-four contacts identified for monitoring.
In light of the further spread of Bundibugyo Virus Disease within Africa, including Kenya and Nigeria, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has elevated the regional risk assessment from low to moderate. Direct travel links between Nigeria and the Caribbean, together with the interconnected nature of regional travel, increase the possibility for Ebola virus disease to be imported into the Caribbean.
In light of the continued outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has strengthened surveillance, preparedness, and response measures to reduce the risk of introduction and transmission. These measures include enhanced screening and monitoring of travelers at ports of entry; strengthening preparedness and infection prevention and control measures within health facilities and ongoing coordination with regional and international partners to ensure effective preparedness, early detection, and timely response capacity.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health strongly advises nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, and Nigeria, where the public health and security risks are of greatest concern. Travelers to neighboring countries, Uganda, South Sudan including Rwanda, Zambia, the Central African Republic, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Angola, the Republic of the Congo, and Burundi, are also urged to exercise extreme caution and remain informed of developments.
This travel advisory will remain in effect for an initial period of three (3) months and will be reviewed regularly based on the evolution of the outbreak and the associated public health risks. Additionally, nationals and non-nationals returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo may be required to undergo 21 days of monitoring and/or quarantine, as determined by public health authorities, based on their potential exposure and travel history. Anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, or other signs of illness following travel to an affected or high-risk area should seek immediate medical attention and disclose their travel history to healthcare providers.
Beginning November 3, 2026 all persons boarding an international flight to the United States of America must attest (sign a statement) that they have not been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the 21 days before boarding the flight. This order was issued on October 22, 2026 by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in the United States of America.
The Bundibugyo Ebola Virus, currently has no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, making prevention, early detection, and prompt public health response particularly important. While no cases have been reported in Saint Lucia or the wider Caribbean, the continued movement of people and goods through international travel and trade presents a potential risk for the introduction of infectious diseases across borders.
The Ministry of Health will continue to closely monitor the international and regional situation and will provide timely updates and further guidance as necessary. Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow official public health advice, and seek information from reliable sources.
The Ministry of Health remains committed to safeguarding the health, safety, and well-being of all citizens, residents, and visitors.
Real Estate
