U.S. calls for stricter travel controls as Ebola cases exceed 600

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda has surpassed 600 confirmed cases and claimed more than 100 lives, as health authorities warn that insecurity, resource shortages and travel restrictions are hampering efforts to contain the virus.

Confirmed Ebola infections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda have climbed to 608, with 102 deaths recorded as of June 8, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The DRC remains the epicentre of the outbreak, reporting 589 confirmed cases after 45 new infections were detected within 24 hours. Uganda reported no new confirmed cases during the same period.

Health officials believe the real number of infections could be higher due to underreporting and challenges in accessing affected communities.

Africa CDC says the outbreak response is being hindered by severe operational constraints across several affected regions.

Many health facilities lack basic necessities, including potable water, protective equipment, decontamination materials and functioning incinerators. Authorities have also reported shortages of ambulances and mounting pressure on health workers, some of whom remain unpaid.

Poor road infrastructure and persistent insecurity are further complicating efforts to reach patients and monitor contacts.

Public health officials have identified low levels of community trust as one of the most significant barriers to controlling the outbreak.

Africa CDC warned that misinformation and reluctance to cooperate with health teams are undermining surveillance, case detection and safe burial practices.

The agency has called for stronger community engagement and risk communication campaigns to improve public cooperation and reduce transmission.

The outbreak has also triggered international tensions over travel policies.

According to reports, the United States has urged several European countries, including Belgium, to adopt stricter entry restrictions for travellers from the DRC and Uganda ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Washington already bars entry to most travellers who have recently visited the affected countries, citing concerns over the potential spread of the virus during the tournament.

Belgian authorities have indicated they do not intend to impose an entry ban on travellers from the affected countries.

Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said Belgium would continue to follow guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Preve