Fears of Ebola spread in East Africa will grow

Significance

On July 2, health officials also confirmed a new case in Ariwara, Ituri Province, a major cross-border trading centre some 35 kilometres from Arua, Uganda, and 70 kilometres from the South Sudan border. Though both cases are for now isolated, they underscore the rising risk that the DRC’s worsening Ebola crisis could soon affect its neighbours.

Impacts

• Declaration of a public health emergency of international concern would create a risk of countries imposing trade or travel restrictions.
• Even now, the epidemic may severely impact regional tourism; Rwanda is particularly vulnerable, as tourism accounts for around 13% of GDP.
• Countries further afield also face risks but may focus less attention on preparedness.