Disease Control Monitors African Ebola Outbreak, Thailand Risk Low
Thailand's Department of Disease Control is monitoring an outbreak of the Bundibugyo Ebola strain in Africa, confirming the country's risk remains low while ramping up screening of incoming travelers. Hospitals nationwide are coordinating to identify potential cases through travel and contact histories, with isolation and testing protocols ready for any suspected infections. Officials urge the public to stay informed through official channels and seek immediate medical care if symptoms appear after travel to affected regions.
Dr. Manee T. Kanasawad, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, disclosed that the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola is currently spreading in Africa, but stressed that Thailand's risk level remains low. Officials are maintaining vigilance and expediting screening of international travelers. On October 22, 2026, Dr. Manee stated that the department is placing importance on risk assessment and readiness for diseases that could enter from abroad. They are monitoring outbreak information from the World Health Organization and relevant agencies, while coordinating with all public and private hospitals to record travel histories and potential exposure in patients presenting with compatible symptoms. If a suspected case is identified, the patient will be isolated, diagnosed, and transferred into the designated care system to reduce the risk of further spread.
"We are continuously monitoring the Bundibugyo Ebola situation following reports of an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and imported cases detected in Kenya and Nigeria. We are coordinating with the WHO and hospitals across both sectors to prepare for rapid screening, detection, and control. While Thailand's risk is currently low, close vigilance is necessary," Dr. Manee said.
He further explained that Ebola spreads person-to-person through direct contact with blood or body fluids of an infected person, as well as contaminated objects. It does not spread through coughing, sneezing, or airborne droplets like COVID-19 or influenza, making transmission slower. The public, especially those planning travel to affected areas, should follow official updates, avoid contact with patients, blood, body fluids, and potentially contaminated items. If symptoms develop during or after travel from a risk area, individuals should seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare providers of their travel and exposure history.
As of October 21, 2026, data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported on October 20 (data through October 18) shows the Democratic Republic of the Congo has recorded 9,552 confirmed cases and 4,602 deaths. Kenya has 9 confirmed cases and 1 death, with no evidence of transmission beyond linked cases. Nigeria has detected 1 imported case and is investigating the source of infection and contact history.
The World Health Organization has not recommended travel or trade restrictions with affected countries. The public should follow updates from the Department of Disease Control and official agencies to protect themselves appropriately without panic. Anyone with a history of travel from an outbreak area or contact with a suspected case who develops illness should report this to medical personnel for proper evaluation.
