Blog/Travelstory

Ebola in Africa

In African countries, we have some nasty bacteria and viruses with extreme symptoms. In 2018, several Ebola cases were detected in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Although Charlie’s Travels does not travel there and the affected area is about 5000 km (!) away, we still want to inform you about this virus.

Ebola virus

Ebola is a rare but often deadly disease. It is characterised by symptoms such as headaches, high fever, and vomiting. Transmission only occurs through direct contact with infected people or animals. The virus spreads through bodily fluids such as blood, urine, saliva, or semen. There is no evidence to suggest that Ebola can be transmitted through the air.

Prevention

A vaccine against Ebola has been available and was previously administered on a small scale to patients' families and high-risk individuals, such as medical personnel. Since May 2018, vaccinations have been rolled out more widely in Congo. Strict protocols are in place across the continent during an Ebola outbreak, which helps contain the virus locally in most cases. However, the virus spreads more easily in areas where people lack awareness about the disease. Organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Congolese government have launched programmes to educate the public on prevention and proper response measures.

African Nations

The United Nations provides medical teams and supplies—including blood tests and thermometers—to help detect and contain the disease beyond infected regions and at national borders. Thanks to this initiative, countries like Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso have successfully avoided severe outbreaks in the past, although such positive outcomes are rarely highlighted in the media. Maintaining good hygiene is crucial. As a traveller, you likely already wash your hands more frequently than the global average. Avoid direct contact with sick individuals—just as you would during flu season back home.

Live a little

Every trip comes with risks, but Ebola tends to be sensationalised in Western media, making its impact seem far greater than it is. Fear-mongering about "that poor, dry continent" often serves to reinforce a sense of superiority over our own "clean, well-organised" countries. If that mindset appeals to you, perhaps a weekend trip to Antwerp is more your speed! At Charlie’s Travels, we follow WHO guidelines and closely monitor developments. If necessary, we will adjust or cancel trips accordingly—off the beaten track, but never off the beaten brain!