Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior has instructed governors nationwide to be vigilant and take preventative measures against the Ebola virus. This directive emphasizes the utilization of the "Provincial Communicable Disease Committee" to monitor, prevent, and control the spread of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in strict accordance with the Ministry of Public Health's announcements and measures to ensure public safety.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, stated that the Ministry has received coordination from the Secretariat of the National Communicable Disease Committee, Ministry of Public Health, regarding preparedness for the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak. This follows a report from the World Health Organization (WHO) on the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Uganda. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo virus strain, prompting the WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
The Permanent Secretary outlined measures under the Communicable Diseases Act, instructing governors of all 76 provinces, as chairpersons of the Provincial Communicable Disease Committees, to support operations in three key areas. These include surveillance, prevention, investigation, and control measures by screening individuals who have traveled from or through countries with reported outbreaks. If infection is suspected, communicable disease control officers must act to isolate, quarantine, or observe the traveler for at least 21 days.
Additionally, local agencies are urged to coordinate with international disease control checkpoints and other authorities to monitor travel history and implement continuous and effective disease surveillance. Public awareness campaigns and risk communication are also emphasized, advising against travel to affected areas and ensuring immediate notification to disease control officers if symptoms are observed.
Ebola virus disease, classified as a dangerous communicable disease, is known for its rapid spread and high mortality rate. In response, the Ministry of Public Health has designated the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Uganda as areas with dangerous communicable diseases, effective from May 21, 2026, under the Communicable Diseases Act.