South Africa and India have implemented mandatory digital health declaration requirements for travelers arriving from countries affected by the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The measures, including South Africa’s Travel Health Questionnaire and India’s Air Suvidha 2.0 portal, aim to enhance disease surveillance and screen for potential exposure among international passengers.
South Africa’s Mandatory Travel Health Questionnaire
Travelers entering South Africa from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) must now complete a mandatory Travel Health Questionnaire (THQ). According to Travelnews, the Department of Health notice applies to anyone who has visited either nation within the 21 days preceding their arrival in South Africa. The digital form is designed to streamline processing at points of entry, such as OR Tambo International Airport.
“The THQ can be completed up to 24 hours before travel to South Africa to facilitate smooth processing upon arrival.”
Department of Health notice, via Travelnews
The implementation of the THQ follows reports of more than 2 000 confirmed Ebola cases and over 800 deaths since May. Health authorities are utilizing this data collection to monitor incoming passengers, ensuring that those with potential exposure are identified before they move through the broader population.
India’s Air Suvidha 2.0 Digital Surveillance
In a parallel effort to strengthen public health surveillance, the Indian government launched Air Suvidha 2.0 on June 25, 2026. This portal replaces traditional paper-based declarations with a contactless system for international travelers arriving from regions affected by the virus. Developed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Delhi International Airport Limited in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services, the platform enables real-time information sharing among health officers, immigration authorities, and state surveillance units.
As ANI reported, the requirement is mandatory for those arriving from or transiting through affected countries. Passengers must submit their health details, including travel history and potential exposure symptoms, before deboarding their aircraft.
International Funding and Collaborative Support
The push for enhanced screening coincides with significant international financial and logistical support. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda announced on June 17 that India has pledged USD 10 million to support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for the outbreak. This commitment was reaffirmed during a virtual summit organized by the African Union.
“India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa-led efforts for outbreak preparedness, response, and recovery, and announced support of USD 10 million.”
J.P. Nadda, Union Health Minister, via ANI
Beyond financial aid, India has delivered 45 tonnes of medical supplies and is preparing to provide further laboratory materials and diagnostic tools. The government also plans to engage in technical collaboration and capacity-building for African health institutions to bolster regional resilience.
Global Containment Challenges
The outbreak, which has claimed more than 1,100 lives, is complicated by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus.
United States Response
The United States is also scaling up its response, with the White House seeking more than USD 1.4 billion in supplemental funding from Congress. This request includes USD 800 million specifically earmarked for humanitarian crisis response to address the widening outbreak. As of late June 2026, the global concern remains high, with international surveillance systems operating under the assumption that the virus could spread beyond current regional boundaries.
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