Oluwatobi Adu 
ADDIS ABABA – The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has called on African governments to strengthen Ebola screening at airports, seaports and land borders as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak.
In a Tuesday letter addressed to health ministers across African Union member states, Africa CDC urged countries to implement enhanced exit screening measures aimed at detecting potential Ebola cases before they cross international borders.
The continental health agency stressed that the measures are designed to prevent the spread of Ebola while allowing travel, trade and humanitarian operations to continue without disruption.
Africa CDC Director-General Dr Jean Kaseya said stronger surveillance at points of entry and exit remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission.
“Protecting public health and preserving safe movement must go together,” Kaseya said.
“Exit screening gives countries a practical, visible and science-based tool to reduce risk, reassure communities and partners, and avoid unnecessary disruption to travel, trade and response operations.”
The agency clarified that its recommendation does not amount to a call for travel bans or trade restrictions but rather a coordinated public health response grounded in science and risk management.
Africa CDC advised governments to deploy trained health personnel at border points, implement non-invasive health screening, strengthen referral systems for suspected cases and improve public awareness campaigns for travellers and transport operators.
The organisation also called for improved reporting mechanisms and stronger cooperation between health authorities, immigration services, aviation regulators, port managers and security agencies.
Interim guidelines issued by the agency recommend health declarations, temperature screening, infection prevention measures and enhanced cross-border coordination.
Africa CDC acknowledged growing international support for Ebola response efforts, including recent engagements with European partners.
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Korede Abdullah 
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