Amid rising global concern over Ebola infections and fresh advisories issued across the country, the Chhattisgarh health department has issued an alert at Raipur airport. The department has ordered the deployment of a nodal officer to coordinate health screening and emergency response for incoming passengers.
Order Issued Under IDSP
An order issued by the directorate of health services under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) on Monday directed the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) of Raipur to appoint a nodal officer at the airport premises for Ebola surveillance and preventive management.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Nodal Officer
According to the order, the nodal officer will coordinate health screening of passengers arriving at the airport, identify suspected cases, and immediately alert the concerned health authorities. The officer will also oversee isolation arrangements, referrals, and emergency medical response if required.
Precautionary Measures Across India
The move comes as health authorities across India step up precautionary surveillance measures following international alerts related to Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa. Officials stated that the state government currently has no reported Ebola case, but surveillance systems are being strengthened as a preventive measure, especially at transit points handling international travellers.
Understanding Ebola
Ebola is considered one of the world’s deadliest viral diseases with a high fatality rate in severe outbreaks. The infection spreads through direct contact with blood or bodily fluids of infected persons or animals such as bats and primates. Health officials clarify that Ebola does not spread through air, water, or routine social contact.
Symptoms and Timeline
The disease usually develops symptoms within two to 21 days after exposure. Early symptoms resemble severe flu, including sudden fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. However, the infection can rapidly worsen and trigger life-threatening complications.
Airport Surveillance Instructions
Officials said that airport surveillance teams have been instructed to remain alert for passengers displaying symptoms linked to viral hemorrhagic fevers or recent travel history to affected regions. The order has also been marked to senior officials of the state health and family welfare department for information and monitoring.
