Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC) announced May 17 that the World Health Organization (WHO) had officially declared the Ebola virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) earlier that day. The declaration reflects the potential for cross-border transmission and the significant international public health implications of the outbreak.

According to WHO’s latest information, the outbreak is currently concentrated in the DRC and has spread across the border into Uganda. The WHO has identified Bundibugyo ebolavirus as the cause of the outbreak. With no approved treatments or vaccines currently available for this specific virus, and multiple cases reported in urban areas, containment efforts remain highly challenging. The WHO currently assesses the regional risk as “high” and the global risk as “low.”

Following a risk assessment based on information from the WHO and other international sources, Taiwan CDC has raised the Travel Health Notice for the DRC and Uganda from Level 1 (Watch) to Level 2 (Alert).

Taiwan CDC further noted that, based on its assessment, the current outbreak poses a low overall risk to Taiwan. However, given the volume of international travel and global connectivity, there remains a risk of imported cases. Taiwan CDC will therefore continue to strengthen border surveillance, disease reporting, and public health preparedness measures.

Taiwan CDC reminds travelers visiting the DRC, Uganda, and surrounding affected areas to take enhanced personal protective measures. As the incubation period for Ebola virus disease can be up to 21 days, travelers returning to Taiwan are advised to undertake self-health management for 21 days after arrival. If travelers develop symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or bleeding, they should wear a mask, seek medical attention promptly, and inform healthcare providers of their travel and contact history. Travelers may call the 1922 hotline (or +886-800-001922 from overseas) if needed, and Taiwan CDC’s regional centers will coordinate with local health authorities to assist with follow-up medical care and public health measures.

Taiwan CDC emphasized that it will continue to closely monitor outbreak developments reported by the WHO and other countries, and adjust prevention and control measures as needed to safeguard public health and safety.