August 8, 2014 - Ottawa, ON
On August 8, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the recent outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease in West Africa, a public health emergency of international concern. The WHO has determined that a coordinated response from the international community is required in order to prevent further spread of the disease.
Canada is already implementing many of the measures being advised by the WHO, including maintaining preparedness to detect, investigate and manage people with Ebola in the unlikely event that a case arrives in Canada. Canada has the capacity to perform diagnostic testing and to manage any ill travelers through the Quarantine Act.
In addition, hospitals in Canada have infection control systems and procedures in place that are designed to limit the spread of infection, protect health care workers, and provide the best care possible for the patient.
There are no confirmed cases of Ebola in Canada and the risk to Canadians remains very low. In fact, there has never been a case of Ebola in Canada, thanks in part to Canada’s close monitoring of the situation and international involvement in rapid diagnostic testing and health surveillance.
The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that Canadians avoid all non-essential travel to Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone due to the ongoing Ebola virus outbreak. For the latest advice and more information from the Government of Canada, Canadians should consult the Government of Canada’s Travel Health Notice on the Ebola Outbreak in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Canada continues to assist to help fight the growing Ebola outbreak in the West Africa region. For more information on Canada’s efforts please visit :
Canada providing additional funding to help fight the Ebola outbreak
Canada’s response to the Ebola outbreak in the West Africa region
Associated Links
Travel Health Notices
Contacts
Michael Bolkenius
Office of the Honourable Rona Ambrose
Federal Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200
Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada
(613) 957-2983
