Despite a deadly virus spread across the Democratic republic of Congo,some families are still determined to go ahead with celebratory events with their loved ones nearby. However, the local authorities have issued certain norms to be followed whether you like it or not.
In a recent event held in Congo, the couple invited around 300 guests including family and friends however, the church authorities only permitted 50 people in the premises and also called off the kissing and hugging tradition in Christian’s wedding as a safety norm to avoid any virus contact.
“There are no kisses, and we’re keeping greetings to a minimum to avoid Ebola. We’re not touching each other. Everyone goes their separate ways”, said a relative of a groom.
Congo on Friday confirmed around 71 new Ebola cases in a period of 24 hours. As per the government, the total number of cases now stands at 452 since the outbreak on May 15. 82 deaths have been confirmed, with majority of the cases reported from Ituri province, in the northeast Congo, a remote region with little healthcare infrastructure and dominating armed groups. Nearly 17 of Ituris 36 health zones have reported confirmed cases. Besides North and South Kivu also reported confirmed cases.
Earlier in the same day, WHO chief announced a $518 million six month plan to fight the rare viral infection, calling for financial and political committment to contain the spread. The strategy aims at confining the spread in Congo and neighbouring Uganda while assisting other countries to prepare for possible outbreak by ramping up bordering screening.
Airlines Emirates has issued a travel advisory warning passengers of updated entry measures linked to Ebola-related precautions affecting several countries, including the UAE.
The airline said multiple destinations have introduced entry restrictions and enhanced health screening in response to the virus, urging travellers to verify requirements through official government channels before departure.