Plague in Democratic Republic of the Congo (Ituri province)

The World Health Organization reports a continuing outbreak of plague in north east Democratic Republic of the Congo. From 22 April to 13 June 2021, 37 suspected pneumonic plague cases including 12 deaths were recorded in Fataki health zone, Ituri province. Plague is endemic in Ituri province, but has not been seen in Fataki health zone for more than ten years. Plague continues to be recorded in other parts of Ituri province this year. 

Plague is a severe bacterial infection which spreads to humans mainly by the bite of infected fleas, or from close contact with infected animals or people.

Advice to Travellers

Plague is rare in international travellers. The risk is highest in those who come into close contact with local wildlife, particularly rats or other rodents. Activities which may increase this risk include:

• camping, or staying in very basic rural accommodation
• walking, hiking or working outdoors
• hunting or participating in activities which involve close contact with wildlife
• caring for a sick person who may be infected with pneumonic plague, which spreads from person to person

Travellers should be advised to:

• practice good insect bite avoidance: insect repellents should protect against flea bites
• avoid close contact with sick or dead animals
• avoid crowded areas in regions where pneumonic plague has recently been reported
• seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms and is a risk they may have been exposed to plague

No vaccine is available for plague. Progression of the disease may be prevented with appropriate antibiotic treatment.

For further information see the TRAVAX Plague page.