The Democratic Republic of Congo has reopened its main airport in Ituri, the province hardest hit by the Ebola outbreak, after a 10-day closure that the government said was implemented as a safety measure.
The government had earlier announced the suspension of passenger flights to Bunia airport, the main airport in Ituri, where the first cases had been confirmed.
In a statement, DRC’s Ministry of Transport said conditions are now in place to “allow a gradual and safe resumption of air operations.”
The Ministry said that all passengers will go through a systematic temperature check upon boarding, and upon arrival.
Additionally, all passengers will be required to wash their hands with soap and water, or use the provided hand sanitizer before boarding.
“Any passenger presenting with a fever will not be allowed to board and will be immediately referred to agents of the National Border Hygiene Program (PNHF) for assessment and management in accordance with current health protocols,” part of the statement read.
The Ministry urged all airlines, airport and port infrastructure managers, flight crews, and travelers to act responsibly and cooperatively to ensure strict compliance with the measures set.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is battling an Ebola outbreak that has claimed at least 246 lives in the country and neighbouring Uganda, according to the African Union’s public health agency, the Africa CDC.
