In a detailed advisory released recently by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday, all Indian citizens have been strictly advised against any unnecessary trips to countries facing an outbreak of the Ebola virus. The advisory takes into consideration that the World Health Organization has already categorized the disease as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The recent outbreaks of Ebola are largely due to the Bundibugyo strain of the disease, and health organizations around the world have taken necessary steps to contain its spread.
In addition to the WHO, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has already categorized the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security owing to the rise in cases and cross-border transmissions of the virus. South Sudan, with porous borders with the affected areas, has been declared as a zone with high risks. The Bundibugyo Strain Threats: Ebola Disease is a life-threatening disease caused by viruses. The Ebola Bundibugyo Strain poses threats because there are currently no known cures or vaccinations for the strain.
The Health Ministry representatives stated that there have not been any cases of Ebola in India reported up till now. Nevertheless, this is a proactive measure in abundance to shield the country from the disease. In respect of the Indian citizens, who are living or required to travel to central African countries, the government has recommended abiding by the guidelines issued by local public health departments, observing stringent hygiene precautions, and avoiding physical contact with people who seem ill.
Guidelines for Travelers entering the Country
Immediate reporting on arrival at APHO desks before going through immigration procedure if displaying symptoms of infection.
Symptoms to Look Out For: Fever, Sudden weakness, Severe headache, Muscle pain, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Sore throat, Unexplained bleeding.
21-Day Period: Due to the three-week incubation period of the virus, the individual who manifests any of the above symptoms in the 21 days since arriving in India should immediately go into isolation, contact the healthcare facility for help, and declare his/her travel history.
National Preparedness Requirement Prior to the travel advisory, a high-level review meeting was conducted by the Health Secretary, Union Punya Salila Srivastava with the Secretaries of Health from all the states and Union Territories. The ministry has already circulated the detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the country. These SOPs outline stringent procedures for passenger screening before and after arrival, quarantine, laboratory testing, and hospital referral procedures.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates
Click Here for Chhattisgarh News
Click Here for Entertainment News