Bangkok: The government has ramped up screening procedures for travelers arriving from regions at risk of Ebola, following a recent declaration by the Royal Gazette that identified Congo and Uganda as areas affected by the dangerous disease. The measures, which took effect on May 21, aim to prevent the spread of Ebola after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Royal Gazette had published a notice from the Ministry of Public Health identifying the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Uganda as zones affected by the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). The publication, dated May 20, 2026, specified that the new guidelines would be effective from May 21, 2026, onwards.
Ms. Lalida highlighted the government's directive for relevant agencies to enhance their surveillance efforts and closely monitor the situation to maintain public confidence in the nation's health systems. The Ministry of Public Health, through its Department of Disease Control, has intensified the screening of travelers from these high-risk countries at international checkpoints. Travelers from the affected regions must pre-register via the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system for foreigners, and the Thai Health Pass system for citizens. The screening process includes symptom checks, temperature assessments, medical history reviews, and a 21-day monitoring period.
Moreover, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has collaborated with the Ministry of Public Health, airlines, and associated bodies to strengthen health measures within the aviation sector. The CAAT has established three main strategies: distributing public health information to passengers pre-travel, screening at the point of origin, and verifying registration data while assessing for symptoms.
Additionally, agencies have conducted rehearsals for contingency plans to efficiently handle cases of passengers suspected of having Ebola, whether detected during flights or upon arrival. This ensures a swift and effective response to any potential outbreak.
"The government assures the public of the Thai health system's readiness to monitor, prevent, and control dangerous communicable diseases. All agencies are actively collaborating to guarantee public safety and build confidence. The public is advised to follow updates from government sources and adhere strictly to health guidelines without succumbing to panic," Ms. Lalida stated.