By Staff Reporter
DUBAI-As UAE residents prepare for summer travel, health authorities and medical experts are urging travellers to stay informed about global health advisories amid ongoing Ebola and hantavirus outbreaks in parts of the world.
Officials have advised against non-essential travel to countries affected by Ebola, including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan. Despite these alerts, UAE health authorities say the country’s public health system remains stable, with strong surveillance and response mechanisms in place.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) have reaffirmed that the UAE continues to actively monitor global health developments and maintain readiness at all points of entry, including airports and healthcare facilities.
Doctors stress that while global outbreaks often generate concern, the actual risk to most travellers remains low when proper precautions are followed.
Infectious disease specialists note that Ebola is not transmitted through air, food, water, or casual contact in public spaces. Instead, infection occurs through direct contact with the bodily fluids of a symptomatic person.
“Ebola does not spread through everyday interactions such as being in airports, malls, or public transport,” one specialist explained, emphasising that misinformation often fuels unnecessary fear.
Hantavirus, another disease under international monitoring, has also drawn attention, though UAE health officials say systems are in place to respond to any emerging threats.
Doctors advise travellers to watch for symptoms during and after travel, especially if visiting high-risk regions. Early signs of Ebola include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, and diarrhoea, which may appear up to 21 days after exposure.
Health experts caution that these symptoms can resemble common illnesses such as malaria or typhoid, making travel history an important factor in diagnosis.
Travellers returning home who develop illness are urged to seek medical care promptly and clearly disclose their travel destinations to healthcare providers.
Preventive advice includes maintaining good hygiene, frequent handwashing, using sanitiser, drinking safe water, and avoiding contact with visibly ill individuals. Families travelling with children are also encouraged to ensure proper hydration and carry basic medical supplies.
Authorities continue to emphasise that awareness, not panic, is key.
“Most travellers can continue their plans safely by following official guidance and staying informed,” doctors said, adding that the UAE’s healthcare system remains fully prepared to handle any potential cases.
Source: Khaleej Times
