Healthcare workers have been urged to strengthen infection prevention measures and remain alert to potential Ebola cases as Tanzania intensifies efforts to keep the deadly virus from crossing its borders amid outbreaks in neighbouring countries.
The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Grace Magembe, issued the call on May 31, 2026, during a visit to Kagera Regional Referral Hospital and Bukoba Municipal Hospital, where she assessed the country's preparedness to prevent Ebola from entering Tanzania through border regions.
Her visit comes as health authorities across East Africa remain on high alert following reported Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
Addressing healthcare personnel, Dr Magembe stressed that medical workers are the first line of defence against infectious diseases and must protect themselves while caring for patients.
“Protect yourself and protect others when attending to patients. Always use the appropriate personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves, aprons, protective eyewear and other required gear depending on the working environment,” she said.
She warned that Ebola's early symptoms—including fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhoea—closely resemble those of several other illnesses, making early detection particularly challenging.
As a result, she urged health workers to maintain a high level of suspicion and carefully assess every patient presenting such symptoms.
Dr Magembe also emphasized the importance of obtaining detailed patient histories, particularly information on recent travel and possible exposure to affected areas.
“Healthcare workers should take comprehensive patient histories and ask about symptoms associated with Ebola, as well as recent travel to countries experiencing outbreaks, especially the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. This information is essential for early identification and prompt response,” she said.
She further called on health facilities to strictly adhere to established protocols governing sample collection, use of medical equipment and disposal of healthcare waste, noting that lapses in these areas could increase the risk of disease transmission.
According to Dr Magembe, personal protection and strict compliance with infection prevention procedures remain among the most effective safeguards for patients, healthcare workers and communities.
The government has in recent months stepped up surveillance and preparedness activities in border regions, including strengthening screening systems and enhancing the capacity of health facilities to respond rapidly should a suspected Ebola case be detected.
Health authorities say continued vigilance among frontline healthcare workers will be critical in safeguarding Tanzania against the threat of Ebola and other cross-border infectious diseases.
