Tanzania has tightened health screening for travelers entering the country following confirmation of the seventh case Bundibugyo Virus Disease (BVD) in its northern neighbour.
In an advisory note issued over the weekend, the Tanzania Ministry of Health said the measures require all incoming travelers to complete an online health surveillance form before departure for Tanzania or upon arrival.
Under the new measure, high-risk travellers will undergo daily health monitoring for 21 days, with authorities checking their condition through automated messages and other communication channels.
“Following the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and a recent case in Kenya of a patient travelling from the DRC, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania (URT) has expanded its public health requirements related to international travel for incoming travellers in line with the International Health Regulations (2005) as amended in 2024, and the Tanzania Public Health Act of 2009,” the advisory stated.
Travelers are required to provide accurate information through the ministry’s online portal and retain a confirmation QR code or reference number for verification by port health authorities, said the travel advisory.
The advisory, signed by Permanent Secretary Grace Magembe, said all travelers entering the country through airports, land borders and seaports would undergo health screening, including temperature checks.
Individuals suspected of having EVD symptoms or other infectious diseases will be managed in accordance with national screening procedures, it said.
High-risk travelers will be subject to daily health monitoring for 21 days through automated messages or other communication channels, said the advisory, adding that they must cooperate with the follow-up process and respond to messages even after leaving Tanzania.
The ministry also urged travelers and transport operators to observe infection prevention measures, including hand hygiene, the use of sanitizers and avoiding unnecessary physical contact.
Any transport vehicle or vessel contaminated by a suspected case, cargo or human remains associated with EVD or another infectious disease will be decontaminated at the point of entry, said the advisory.
MG/as/APA