Jersey Officials Monitor Central Africa Ebola Outbreak Alongside UK Authorities

Health officials in Jersey are working closely with counterparts in the UK to keep track of the ongoing Ebola outbreak affecting parts of central Africa.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 600 suspected cases have been reported across the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring nations, with 139 suspected deaths linked to the virus. The agency warned that figures are likely to increase as delays in identifying infections continue.

The WHO formally classified the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern on Sunday. It also said a vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola may not be available for up to nine months.

Public Health Jersey said the threat to people in Jersey and the wider UK remains low. Officials added that they were not aware of any island residents being affected by the outbreak at this stage.