Uganda requires 21-day quarantine at own cost for returnees from Congo amid Ebola concerns

Uganda's Health Ministry announced reinforced border controls requiring citizens returning from Congo to undergo a 21-day quarantine at their own expense, according to ABC News.

These measures aim to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus, which has caused thousands of deaths in Congo, though Uganda has reported no confirmed cases since July 28.

The country initially established border controls in May, limiting travel to essential personnel such as humanitarian workers and truck drivers, with screening procedures in place at borders and Entebbe International Airport.

New rules include returning nonessential Congolese travelers at their own cost through the nearest border crossing and prosecuting those who enter illegally.

All arrivals must complete a passenger locator form and undergo health screening, including diplomats and United Nations personnel, as screening efforts intensify.

Authorities are investigating how a woman who traveled from Uganda to Nigeria contracted Ebola, highlighting the importance of these controls.