THE ONGOING EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE OUTBREAK IS CLOSELY BEING MONITORED. WHILE NO CASES HAVE BEEN DETECTED IN SAINT LUCIA OR THE WIDER CARIBBEAN REGION, THE RISK OF IMPORTATION THROUGH TRAVEL REMAINS AS THE REGION IS HIGHLY CONNECTED THROUGH INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

On Monday May 17th, the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially declared the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern  (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005). Given this declaration, there is a need for heightened international and regional vigilance and coordination,  especially with the current situation in conflict-affected regions with limited access  to healthcare services. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is closely monitoring the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease outbreak. While no cases have been detected in Saint Lucia or the wider Caribbean region, the risk of importation through travel remains as the region is highly connected through international travel. As a precautionary measure to safeguard the health and well-being of all citizens and to prevent the introduction of Ebola Virus Disease into the country, the Government of Saint Lucia is issuing a travel advisory. 

The Government of Saint Lucia strongly advises nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, where the outbreak and security risks are most severe. Neighboring countries including Rwanda, Kenya, Zambia, the Central African Republic, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Angola, the Republic of the Congo and Burundi are also considered high-risk and extreme caution is urged. This travel advisory is being issued for an initial period of three (3) months and will be subject to review as the situation evolves. 

Nationals as well as non-nationals returning from any of the above-mentioned countries will be required to undergo 21 days of quarantine from the last day of

exposure. Anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting or bleeding after visiting these countries must seek immediate medical assistance. 

The Ministry of Health will continue to intensify its surveillance and preparedness measures to safeguard public health. The situation will be closely monitored and timely updates will be provided. 

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