Ebola is a severe acute infectious disease in humans, often associated with haemorrhagic syndrome and multi-organ failure, with fatality rates that can reach up to 90 per cent.
The virus spreads through direct contact with tissues, blood and bodily fluids of infected humans or animals and can trigger large outbreaks.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Congo and Uganda recorded about 600 suspected Ebola cases and 139 deaths between May 5 and May 20, including more than 50 confirmed infections linked to the Bundibugyo strain.
Health authorities warned that Ebola can spread through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids and contaminated objects such as clothing, bedding and used needles.
In an urgent directive, the Department of Medical Services Administration instructed hospitals and local health authorities to strengthen Ebola prevention measures, particularly for arrivals from outbreak-affected countries within the previous 21 days.
Medical facilities were instructed to intensify infection control measures, closely monitor suspected cases and strictly screen, classify and isolate all patients suspected or confirmed to be infected with Ebola.
Hospitals were also told to promptly detect suspected infections and coordinate with preventive health agencies on testing, diagnosis, treatment and disease control in line with Ministry of Health guidelines.
Authorities said inspections and supervision of infection prevention practices at hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide would be strengthened to reduce the risk of transmission.