Saint Lucians are being urged to avoid non-essential travel to three African countries amid an Ebola outbreak, with travellers returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo potentially facing 21 days of monitoring or quarantine.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition issued the advisory on November 2, 2026, as it intensified measures to prevent Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease from reaching Saint Lucia. According to the advisory, no cases have been reported in Saint Lucia or the wider Caribbean.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George said the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains at the centre of an active outbreak, with cases also reported in Kenya and Nigeria.
She strongly advised nationals to “avoid non essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya and Nigeria.” Travellers to neighbouring countries were also urged to “exercise extreme caution and remain informed of developments.”
The advisory will remain in effect for an initial three-month period, with regular reviews as the outbreak evolves.
Nationals and non-nationals returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo may be required to undergo “21 days of monitoring and/or quarantine,” depending on their travel history and potential exposure.
Dr. Belmar-George said Saint Lucia has strengthened screening and monitoring at ports of entry and reinforced infection prevention and control measures within healthcare facilities. Coordination with regional and international partners is also ongoing to support early detection and an effective response should a case be identified.
Anyone who develops fever, weakness, vomiting or unexplained bleeding after travelling to an affected or high-risk area is advised to seek immediate medical attention and disclose their travel history to healthcare providers.
The advisory also outlined a new requirement for travel to the United States. Beginning November 3, 2026, persons boarding international flights to the US will be required to attest that they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the preceding 21 days.
Uganda, meanwhile, officially declared its outbreak over in July 2026, following 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case, according to Dr. Belmar-George.
The chief medical officer urged the public to remain vigilant, follow official health advice and seek information from reliable sources. She stressed that prevention, early detection and a prompt response remain critical, as there is currently no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease.
