Ebola Threat: CAR Screens River Travellers Amid Fears Of Cross-Border Spread
The Central African Republic (CAR) has tightened health checks along its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid fears that the country’s deadly Ebola outbreak could spread across the Oubangui River.
At M’Poko Bac pier near the capital, Bangui, travellers arriving by canoe from the DRC wash their hands, undergo temperature checks and register with health workers.
“Next, we brief them on the situation, then direct them to the tent for temperature checks and registration,” said Maldiana Bagalama, a health screening officer.
The concerns are heightened by Ebola cases in Congolese regions bordering the CAR and a porous frontier stretching more than 1,500 kilometres.
Despite the risks, fishing, transport and trade continue across the river, leaving many workers worried about their exposure to the virus.
“We are worried because we work right here, by the river, and if Ebola reaches here we shall be the first to fall victim to it,” said Neige, a fishmonger and mother of three.
Canoe operator Foxy Yeti Nzapa, 25, also expressed concern about transporting passengers between the two countries without adequate protection.
“My concern is that the people we bring back from the other side might also put us at risk,” he said, calling for preventive measures.
CAR health official Dr. Valentin Nebanga said travellers entering and leaving the country were systematically screened, with health workers taking temperatures and asking questions using standardised forms.
Authorities have also launched awareness campaigns involving community leaders and religious figures.
Although no Ebola cases had been reported in the CAR at the time of the report, Nebanga acknowledged the challenges facing the country’s preparedness efforts.
“We are never fully prepared,” he said.
Credit: AFP
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