The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has called on governments and airline operators to strictly adhere to established public health and aviation safety guidelines amid renewed concerns over the spread of Ebola in parts of Africa.
The appeal comes as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to battle an outbreak of the Bundibugyo Ebola virus strain, which has also recorded confirmed cases in neighbouring Uganda.
Health authorities report that the outbreak has led to over 900 suspected infections and about 220 suspected deaths in the DRC, while Uganda has confirmed at least seven cases.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has described the situation as a public health emergency of international concern, warning that the virus is spreading more rapidly than containment efforts can keep up with.
In response, ICAO reiterated its call for strict compliance with post–COVID-19 aviation health protocols, urging closer coordination between governments, airlines, airports, and health agencies to reduce cross-border health risks.
The aviation body noted that lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic had strengthened global systems for health risk management in air travel, including improved data sharing frameworks and the use of digital tools such as electronic health declarations and contactless screening procedures.
It added that these measures are designed to safeguard passengers and aviation personnel, reduce disruptions to flight operations, and maintain confidence in international travel.
ICAO also stressed its ongoing collaboration with the WHO and member states to implement preventive measures aimed at limiting the risk of disease transmission through air travel.
Meanwhile, WHO guidance advises against the closure of borders or the imposition of general travel and trade restrictions, stating that such measures are not necessary for passengers travelling from unaffected regions.
Instead, it recommends targeted screening at exit points in affected countries, especially for individuals showing symptoms such as fever and other signs consistent with Ebola infection.
The WHO further urged health authorities to ensure that confirmed cases and their contacts are promptly identified, isolated, and prevented from undertaking international travel unless under supervised medical evacuation arrangements.