The Democratic Republic of Congo has imposed a nationwide ban on mass gatherings following the detection of new Ebola virus cases in the eastern city of Goma. The World Health Organisation has issued a global health alert, urging neighbouring countries to bolster surveillance and preparedness measures.
The ban, announced by the Congolese health ministry late on Tuesday, prohibits public events, including concerts, sporting matches, and political rallies, for an initial period of 30 days. Schools and universities have been ordered to close, and non-essential travel within and out of affected provinces has been discouraged.
The decision follows the confirmation of three Ebola cases in Goma, a densely populated transit hub near the Rwandan border. The first patient, a 28-year-old man, died on Monday after developing symptoms consistent with haemorrhagic fever. Two further cases have since been identified among his close contacts.
Ebola, a viral disease with a fatality rate of up to 90 per cent, causes severe bleeding, organ failure, and death. The current outbreak, centred in North Kivu province, has already claimed 1,500 lives since August 2018. The WHO has described the situation as a "public health emergency of international concern", only the fifth time such a designation has been made.
Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the WHO's health emergencies programme, said the alert was issued because of the "high risk of regional spread" given Goma's connectivity. "This is a pivotal moment. The world must act decisively to prevent a catastrophic escalation," he said.
The Congolese government has mobilised military and police to enforce the gathering ban. Checkpoints have been established on major roads, and temperature screening has been expanded at the Goma international airport. The government has also pledged to accelerate the deployment of an experimental vaccine, which has shown promise in clinical trials.
Critics have warned that the restrictive measures could fuel public anger and hinder efforts to contain the virus. The province of North Kivu is already grappling with armed conflict, displacement, and a weak health infrastructure. Médecins Sans Frontières has cautioned that a heavy-handed response could drive patients underground, increasing the risk of transmission.
Neighbouring countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, and South Sudan, have intensified border screenings. Rwanda has designated a special isolation ward at a hospital near the border. Uganda, which experienced a cross-border outbreak in June, has launched a public health campaign.
The global health alert places Ebola alongside other high-consequence pathogens such as polio and pandemic influenza. It triggers enhanced international coordination and resource mobilisation. The WHO has requested $100 million in emergency funding.
The situation remains fluid. The Congolese government is expected to provide further details on Wednesday regarding the duration of the ban and any exemptions. International health agencies are urging calm but emphasising the need for rapid action.
