Ebola Fears Spark Tourism Cancellations, Strain Health Workers

Uganda’s efforts to control the recent Ebola Bundibugyo Disease outbreak are facing an unexpected challenge: fear and misinformation are negatively impacting both the tourism and healthcare sectors.

Industry stakeholders report a noticeable decline in business activity, with private tour operators receiving cancellations from concerned travelers. Simplicious Gessa, head of public relations at the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), confirmed these reports, highlighting how online misinformation contributes to the problem. The tourism sector, which significantly contributes to Uganda’s GDP and was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, fears a reversal of recent gains if the outbreak escalates or international perceptions worsen.

Deogratius Muhumuza, founder of Uganda Eco Tours, expressed anxiety over the rapid spread of Ebola-related news online, noting that while his business is not yet severely affected, colleagues have already seen bookings disappear. The Ministry of Health, however, maintains that transparent and regular communication is crucial for public health and crucial for fulfilling international health regulations. Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, emphasized Uganda’s commitment to sharing information to protect public health.

Beyond the economic impact on tourism, the outbreak is straining the healthcare system. Over 100 health workers from private facilities that treated Ebola patients have been quarantined. Dr. Joseph Gavin Nyanzi from the Uganda Medical Association warned that prolonged quarantine can lead to mental health issues for workers and create staffing shortages. Despite these concerns, the Ministry of Health is prioritizing essential services and aims to avoid facility shutdowns unless absolutely necessary. The ministry assures the public that the outbreak is being managed and urges against the spread of rumors that could hinder response efforts.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-fear-over-ebola-is-hurting-tourism-health-5477518