Fact-finding mission on airport exit screening - EU Health Task Force mission to Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda in response to the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak 2026

This report provides a snapshot of the infrastructure and procedures in place for exit screening in the main international airports of each capital city: N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa (DRC) and Entebbe International Airport in Kampala (Uganda). 

Exit screening in these airports, including symptom checks and exposure assessment, can contribute to reducing the risk of onward transmission by identifying travellers who are symptomatic before they board, and preventing them travelling with symptoms. It also helps dissuade people who are ill from travelling, and enhances public and stakeholder confidence in the public health response. However, it cannot fully prevent the exportation of cases, as the absence of symptoms at departure does not exclude subsequent onset of disease upon or after arrival. 

The mission team found that both countries have established coordinated exit screening systems, supported by strong political commitment and national leadership to prevent international transmission of Ebola disease. These function alongside domestic containment efforts based on extensive experience of managing previous Ebola disease outbreaks. 

In both countries, the mission team observed a high degree of transparency and willingness to engage with stakeholders through facilitating access to systems and operations. The site visit at both airports demonstrated that the exit screening systems in place are in line with international standards and benefit from effective multi-sectoral collaboration, involving public health authorities, aviation actors, border services, security forces, and international partners. Screening processes have clear referral and escalation pathways supported by trained medical personnel and infection, prevention and control (IPC) measures. 

While the systems in place are functional, the mission identified opportunities for further targeted interventions, particularly in relation to passenger processing, digital integration, IPC measures and risk communication. These findings have been communicated to the national authorities in both countries. Regular training, supervision and monitoring over time by national teams and international partners will help to sustain and further improve practices.