Airlines have been directed to ensure that passengers travelling from or transiting through Uganda or Congo mandatorily fill out a self-declaration form under a detailed standard operating procedure (SOP) issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in response to Ebola outbreak.

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The form requires passengers to provide personal and contact details, travel origin, exposure history and any medical symptoms.

The SOP issued in a May 22 order also lays down protocols for handling suspected Ebola cases onboard. Airlines must designate segregated seating with at least three vacant rows around the suspected passenger. Suspected cases must be provided masks and personal protective equipment, while masks must also be distributed to passengers seated nearby.

According to the DGCA order, aircraft carrying suspected cases will have to undergo complete disinfection upon arrival. Airlines must also coordinate with Air Traffic Control, airport operators and Airport Health Officers to ensure the aircraft is parked in an isolated bay and all passengers undergo thermal screening.