India has intensified health surveillance at airports after a fresh outbreak of the Ebola virus disease in Central Africa raised international concern. The advisory comes following reports of infections linked to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and nearby regions.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has instructed airport authorities to strengthen screening measures for passengers arriving from or transiting through high-risk countries including Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Heightened Airport Screening Measures
Health officials at international airports have been directed to monitor travellers showing symptoms associated with Ebola infection. These include fever, severe headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue, muscle pain, sore throat, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.
Passengers arriving from affected regions may undergo thermal screening and additional medical checks. Authorities have also advised travellers to immediately report symptoms that appear within 21 days of travel and share their travel history with healthcare providers.
What Is The Bundibugyo Virus?
The current outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus disease, first identified in Uganda in 2007. Unlike the more common Zaire strain, there are currently no approved vaccines or targeted antiviral treatments specifically for the Bundibugyo variant.
The virus spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. It is not considered airborne, but close physical contact significantly increases transmission risk.
Why Health Agencies Are Concerned
Global health agencies, including the World Health Organization, are closely monitoring the outbreak because of rising cross-border movement and healthcare challenges in affected regions. Multiple infections and fatalities have already been reported in outbreak zones.
The WHO has urged countries to strengthen surveillance systems, improve public awareness, and enhance airport and border health checks to reduce the risk of international spread.
Advisory For Travellers
Health experts advise travellers visiting affected African regions to maintain strict hand hygiene, avoid contact with infected individuals, and stay updated through official advisories. Returning passengers are encouraged to monitor symptoms carefully for up to three weeks after arrival.
Indian authorities have clarified that no Ebola case has been detected in the country so far, but the advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure to strengthen preparedness and public health response.