DR Congo’s neighbors impose Covid-style measures in push to limit Ebola’s spread

Ebola Virus OutbreakDR Congo’s neighbors impose Covid-style measures in push to limit Ebola’s spreadScreening tools and hygiene measures deployed during the Covid-19 pandemic are making a comeback, with Uganda temporarily suspending large cultural events as a precaution.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00Add NBC News to GoogleEbola treatment center set alight in Congo00:44Get more newsLiveonShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 24, 2026, 9:30 AM EDTBy Freddie ClaytonRegional concern over the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo intensified Saturday as Uganda confirmed three new cases, while neighboring countries stepped up monitoring measures amid fears of cross-border spread.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.Health authorities and aid agencies across east and southern Africa are reinforcing screening at key crossings and scaling up preparedness planning, as officials warn that ongoing cross-border movement continues to present a risk of further cases.Officials have also expanded community awareness campaigns alongside border screening and local surveillance measures, urging residents to report symptoms quickly and follow hygiene guidance aimed at limiting transmission.Uganda, which borders the epicenter of the outbreak in Congo, urged the public to “remain calm, vigilant, and continue observing all recommended preventive measures” as its health ministry announced three new cases in the country, bringing the total number to five.Ugandan health teams screen travelers for Ebola on May 23 as precautions have been stepped up on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.Nicholas Kajoba / Anadolu via Getty ImagesA Ugandan driver who transported the country’s first confirmed case was infected and is currently receiving treatment, it said, alongside a health worker who was taking care of the same patient. A Congolese woman who has returned to her home country but was tre...