ITURI PROVINCE — Israel's Health Ministry is investigating a suspected Ebola case after a traveler returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo developed symptoms. The traveler, who developed a fever and headache, was transferred to Rambam Health Care Campus.

The individual is in isolation, and tests are underway with results anticipated within 24 hours. The Rambam Health Care Campus is designated as the medical center for such cases in Israel. An epidemiological investigation has begun to identify contacts.

The Health Ministry has distributed professional guidelines to medical teams and hospitals regarding the handling of suspected cases. Protective equipment and specialized gear have been fully supplied to these facilities. Additionally, early detection mechanisms have been established for travelers arriving from affected areas, and a laboratory detection system for Ebola infection has been set up.

The Health Ministry advises against non-essential travel to the DRC and Congo. Travelers returning from active Ebola areas who experience fever or unusual symptoms within 21 days are instructed to stay home, avoid contact with others, and call the Health Voice Call Center at *5400.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 933 confirmed Ebola cases and 245 deaths in the DRC. In Uganda, there have been 19 confirmed Ebola cases and two confirmed deaths. The confirmed cases in both countries are caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is currently no vaccine or treatment. Vaccines for the Zaire strain were developed in 2018 and 2019.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing its 17th Ebola outbreak, which was declared on May 15 and has primarily affected Ituri Province. The World Health Organization reports 808 people infected and 192 killed in the DRC. Health authorities in the DRC have received criticism for delays in outbreak detection and supporting frontline workers, though the government has insisted the situation is under control.