Mbabane – The Ministry of Health has confirmed there are no suspected or confirmed cases of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease in the Kingdom, as authorities monitor an outbreak that has been reported internationally.
Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula issued the assurance on Monday, 2 June, saying the risk to the general population remains low based on available evidence, and that no travel or trade restrictions have been recommended.
The ministry said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation through international surveillance networks and is working with regional and international partners to ensure the country is prepared to rapidly detect and respond to any potential threat. 
Through the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, the ministry has put in place a range of preparedness measures, including enhanced surveillance and event-based monitoring, increased screening at points of entry, strengthening of Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response systems, activation of rapid information sharing through national emergency structures, laboratory preparedness and specimen referral systems, and training of healthcare workers on Ebola detection, reporting, infection prevention and case management. Rapid response teams have also been placed on standby and a Risk Communication and Community Engagement programme has been activated.
Healthcare facilities across the country have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance for patients presenting with severe unexplained illnesses and relevant travel history.
The ministry urged the public to practise regular handwashing with soap and clean water, use alcohol-based hand sanitisers where appropriate, and avoid direct contact with blood or bodily fluids of sick individuals.
Anyone who develops a fever with severe weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding, particularly after travelling to affected areas or coming into contact with sick travellers, is advised to seek medical care immediately.
Individuals returning from affected countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, should remain alert for symptoms and notify health authorities without delay should any develop.
Ebola Virus Disease is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated materials or infected animals. Early symptoms include fever, severe headache, muscle pain, sore throat and general weakness. As the illness progresses, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, skin rash, internal and external bleeding and multi-organ failure. The ministry noted that early detection, isolation, supportive care and rapid response significantly improve outcomes.
The public is urged to rely on official communication channels and avoid spreading unverified information. Health-related inquiries can be directed to the Ministry of Health toll-free line: 977.
