Ebola: Cambodia Tightens Surveillance After WHO Emergency

• 0 suspected cases. No Ebola cases have been detected in Cambodia to date.
• May 18, 2026. The WHO declares the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
• Enhanced surveillance. The Cambodian Ministry of Health immediately activates border control measures.
• Airports affected. Temperature checks and health questionnaires implemented at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
• Travel recommendations. Authorities advise against non-essential travel to affected areas.

The Ebola outbreak in Central Africa was declared a global emergency by the WHO on May 18, 2026. Cambodia responded quickly by strengthening health surveillance.

1. Early 2026: Several Ebola cases are reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries.
2. May 17, 2026: The WHO convenes an emergency meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee.
3. May 18, 2026: The WHO declares the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
4. May 18, 2026 (evening): The Cambodian Ministry of Health announces enhanced surveillance at points of entry.
5. May 19, 2026: Temperature checks and health questionnaires are effectively implemented at international airports.
6. Upcoming: The ministry plans simulation exercises and training for medical staff.

Surveillance measures are deployed at Cambodia's main points of entry. Here is the breakdown by airport:

• Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport, travelers may undergo a temperature check and must complete a health questionnaire.
• Expats returning from Ebola-affected countries may be subject to voluntary quarantine or medical monitoring.
• Travel to Central Africa is discouraged unless urgent; expats should check their embassy's recommendations.
• Hospitals and clinics in Siem Reap are informed and ready to handle potential suspected cases.
• Public gatherings are not restricted for now, but the situation is closely monitored.

1. Step 1: Stay informed via official channels of the Ministry of Health and the WHO.
2. Step 2: Avoid non-essential travel to countries affected by the outbreak.
3. Step 3: Wash hands frequently with soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
4. Step 4: Avoid contact with people showing symptoms (fever, vomiting, bleeding).
5. Step 5: If you develop a fever after travel, contact a doctor immediately and mention your travel history.
6. Step 6: Follow instructions from health authorities at points of entry.
7. Step 7: Be prepared to change your travel plans if the situation evolves.