The Bundibugyo (BVD) strain outbreak is a major cause of concern in the DRC, where there have been more than 900 suspected cases and around 220 suspected deaths.
So far, there have been seven confirmed cases in Uganda. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the outbreak, which it has declared a public health emergency of international concern, is spreading faster than health workers can contain it.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) will update its guidelines as necessary in light of the evolving situation, but for now it insists that international air services stay safe.
Clear guidance in place
On Tuesday, the UN agency called on governments and aviation stakeholders to strictly comply with WHO recommendations to reduce any Ebola-related risks.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused massive disruptions to air travel, prompting the establishment of ICAO new protocols for rapid, standardized information sharing between states, airlines, airports and health authorities.
Digital innovations such as electronic health declarations and contactless border processes have been integrated into ICAO’s recommendations to track and manage health risks more effectively, and the agency is coordinating with the WHO and its Member States to deliver measures to prevent transmission of the disease through air travel.
These measures are also designed to protect the health of aircrew and passengers, reassure travelers and keep flight cancellations to a minimum.
