Tanzania introduces sensible precautionary measures in response to the threat of Ebola

Following the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in DRC, and a recent case in Kenya of a patient travelling from the DRC, the United Republic of Tanzania (URT) has expanded its public health requirement related to international travel for incoming travellers, with immediate effect :

1. All travellers are required to truthfully fill out an online Traveler's Health Surveillance Form through: https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz BEFORE departure to the URT or upon arrival, enter accurate information, and keep the confirmation QR code or reference number for verification by the Port Health Authorities upon arrival.

2. At all points of entry (airports, ground crossing, and ports), health screening including body temperature will be checked on all travellers. A person suspected of having signs and symptoms of EVD, or any other infectious disease will be managed according to the National Entry and Exit Screening Standard Operating Procedures.

3. All travellers will be provided with health information, advised to self-monitor and report on signs and symptoms of EVD, or any other infectious disease to the nearest health facility, point of entry, or contact authorities through toll free number 199 or email [email protected].

4. Mandatory follow up through daily automated messages or other means of communication to monitor health status of high-risk travelers for a period of 21 days, will be activated according to the National Entry and Exit Screening Standard Operating Procedures. Travelers are required to cooperate and respond to the messages throughout the follow up period, even after exiting the country.

5. All travellers and conveyance operators MUST adhere to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures such as hand hygiene, use of sanitizers, and avoid unnecessary physical contact.

6. Any contaminated conveyance with suspected person, cargo or human remains of EVD or any other infectious disease will be decontaminated at point of entry to control spread of the disease.

Travellers exiting URT are advised to comply to the entry requirement of their country of destination or transit. The Travel Advisory will be reviewed from time to time as need arises.

Issued by Dr. Grace E. Magembe, Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Health

Tim Henshall, Head of Tourism Marketing at Tanzania Tourism UK emphasised, "These are sensible, preventative measures. There are currently no cases of Ebola in Tanzania or Zanzibar. There is no need for public concern."