Enhanced health surveillance has been introduced for travellers from certain countries as a precautionary measure to minimise the possibility of Ebola spread on the island.

The Ministry of Health said today that the risk to Bermuda as a result of the virus remained low — with no suspected or confirmed cases — but global developments continued to be assessed with responses to be adjusted as necessary.

In May, the World Health Organisation declared Ebola virus disease a public health emergency of international concern owing to outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

The ministry said: “Ebola is a serious illness that spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of someone who is infected or through contaminated surfaces.

“While the risk to Bermuda remains low, the Ministry of Health is taking precautionary steps to ensure early detection and rapid response should any risk emerge.

“As part of Bermuda’s public health surveillance, travellers arriving in Bermuda from Uganda, South Sudan or the Democratic Republic of the Congo are subject to public health monitoring upon entry.

“This measure aligns with international best practices and supports early identification of any potential health concerns.”

Included in the enhanced surveillance is entry screening and review of travel history, health monitoring for 21 days after arrival, clear guidance on symptoms to watch for and direct access to public health support if needed.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, described the screenings as “sensible, proactive measures to safeguard our community”.

She added: “Enhanced monitoring of travellers from affected regions is a standard public health practice and ensures Bermuda remains prepared and protected.”

An outbreak of the ebola virus was declared an epidemic after a laboratory in the Ituri province of the DRC confirmed eight cases.

The epidemic has since become the second-largest ebola outbreak on record, with 3,769 confirmed cases and 1,659 confirmed deaths.

Shaun Ramroop, the Chief Medical Officer, said: “Our teams are maintaining close oversight of global developments and applying evidence‑based measures here at home.

“Monitoring travellers from affected regions allows us to detect any potential risk early and respond swiftly.

“These actions are precautionary and reflect our commitment to protecting the health of everyone in Bermuda.”

Symptoms of Ebola include fever, severe headache, fatigue, muscle pain, weakness, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain and unexplained bleeding or bruising.

The virus becomes contagious once symptoms appear, which can take place between two and 21 days after exposure.

Ebola infection can be prevented by avoiding close contact with infected humans, bats or primates.

Preventive measures include frequent handwashing and cleaning, using condoms during sexual activity, avoiding bush meat from impacted areas and following local health recommendations and news sources.