Zambia steps up Ebola preparedness as DRC, Uganda cases rise

Government has intensified national preparedness measures for Ebola Virus Disease following a Bundibugyo virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, Vice President Mutale Nalumango has said.

The World Health Organisation declared the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 16, 2026 and as of June 2, DRC reported 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths, while Uganda recorded 15 cases and 1 death.

Nalumango addressed the nation on Sunday, updating citizens on Zambia’s readiness and response plans.

Although Zambia has not recorded any confirmed cases linked to the outbreak, the Vice President cited the country’s proximity to affected nations, trade links, and high cross-border movement as reasons for vigilance.

“I wish to reassure the nation that the Government is treating this matter with the seriousness it deserves. Our approach is guided by prevention, early detection, rapid response, transparency and the protection of lives,” she said.

Nalumango stated that the Government, through the Ministry of Health and Zambia National Public Health Institute, had conducted a national assessment of readiness to prevent, detect and respond to any Ebola threat.

She said surveillance had been heightened nationwide, with health workers placed on alert to identify and report suspected cases and case definitions and reporting protocols have also been reinforced in health facilities.

“Case definitions and reporting protocols have been reinforced in health facilities, while rapid response teams remain available to investigate alerts and take appropriate action,” Nalumango said.

She stated that screening and health checks had been reinforced at key points of entry, including international airports, major border posts and strategic crossings.

Nalumango said Port health officers, immigration officials and security services were working together to assess travellers.

“The Government is mobilising protective equipment, medical supplies and other essential commodities for national, provincial and district levels,” she said.

Nalumango stated that training had been extended to frontline health workers, border officials, emergency responders and community volunteers.

“I call upon all citizens to remain calm, alert and responsible. Anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, or other symptoms consistent with Ebola, especially after travel to an affected area or contact with a suspected case, should seek medical attention immediately,” she said.

Nalumango said recent alerts of suspected viral haemorrhagic fever were promptly investigated and both were confirmed negative for Ebola, demonstrating that preparedness systems are working.

The Vice President further urged the public to practise good hygiene, cooperate with health workers, avoid unverified information, and report suspected public health events through the toll-free hotline 7020 or nearest health facility.

“Together, through vigilance, unity and shared responsibility, we can protect our families, safeguard our communities and strengthen Zambia’s health security,” she said.

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