Health authorities in India have significantly ramped up airport screening, traveler monitoring, and quarantine measures following suspected Ebola cases reported in Bengaluru and Gujarat. However, no infection has been confirmed in the country so far.
Negative Test Brings Relief
A 28-year-old Ugandan woman, who had been isolated in Bengaluru over suspected Ebola infection, has tested negative, bringing relief amid heightened concern over fresh outbreaks reported in parts of Africa.
Enhanced Surveillance at Airports
Officials stated that Airport Health Organisation teams are directly contacting travelers arriving from affected countries. As a precautionary measure, even mildly symptomatic individuals are being isolated.
"Even if someone reports a slight headache, we do not want to take any chances and are keeping such persons in isolation," an official said, adding that samples are being sent to the National Institute of Virology for testing.
Case in Gujarat Under Observation
Officials mentioned that the test report of a 37-year-old man, who reportedly traveled from the African continent and Bangladesh before arriving in Mumbai and later Vadodara with two associates, is expected soon. According to health officials, the man developed fever, cold, and cough symptoms and was initially admitted to a private hospital in Vadodara before being shifted to a civil hospital isolation ward after his travel history emerged during screening.
Authorities said the patient, his two associates, and a doctor who came into professional contact with him have all been placed under observation as a precaution.
No Confirmed Cases, Appeal Against Rumors
Officials stressed that there is no confirmed Ebola case in Gujarat or elsewhere in India and appealed to people not to spread rumors or misinformation on social media. The Union health ministry said surveillance has been intensified at airports and hospitals, with quarantine measures being initiated wherever travelers from affected African regions report even mild symptoms.
Officials emphasized that India remains on high alert, and all screening, isolation, and testing protocols are being carried out in line with WHO guidelines.
