Ivory Coast is anticipating the risk of an epidemic. Following the declaration of an international emergency by the WHO, health controls have been considerably tightened at Félix Houphouët-Boigny airport.

A preventive response to the Bundibugyo strain

Although no cases of Ebola virus have been detected in Ivory Coast , health authorities refuse to remain inactive. Meeting at a press conference on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the National Institute of Public Hygiene (INHP) in Treichville, they unveiled a rigorous contingency plan.

The government's objective is clear: to establish a health shield to prevent the introduction of the Bundibugyo strain, which is currently affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. This preventative measure follows the WHO's declaration of the epidemic as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17.

“ No cases of Ebola virus disease have been detected in Côte d'Ivoire to date. It is essential to anticipate this regional threat. ” — Professor Ekra Kouadio Daniel , Director General of the INHP.

The 5 pillars of the airport system

The Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) has been placed on "alert" status. The immediate response plan is based on targeted actions at Abidjan airport:

1. Enhanced screening: Stricter thermal and health checks for all passengers disembarking in Abidjan.
2. Traveler traceability: Mandatory implementation of a tracking form for any person coming from at-risk areas.
3. Logistics coordination: Regular strategic meetings with airlines and the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC).
4. Emergency isolation: Reactivation and optimization of the airport premises dedicated to pandemic management, with immediate deployment of sampling kits.
5. Epidemiological monitoring: Deployment of a team specializing in contact tracing within the COUSP.

A call for vigilance and civic responsibility

Alongside the strengthening of air borders, information campaigns are being launched to the general public and travellers to remind them of suspicious symptoms and the appropriate course of action.

Professor Ekra strongly urged the public not to succumb to panic and to block the spread of fake news . He reiterated that collective safety relies on simple but essential actions: regular handwashing , adherence to preventative measures , and immediate access to health services at the slightest sign of illness.