The World Health Organization (WHO) on Sunday declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). In response, Indian health experts have stated that there is no reason for panic, as Ebola does not spread like Covid-19. However, they emphasized that vigilance and early detection remain crucial.
No Ebola Cases in India Except One in 2014
Health ministry officials confirmed that no Ebola case has ever been reported in India, except for one involving an international traveler who tested positive in 2014. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring the situation.
How Ebola Spreads Differently from Covid-19
Former AIIMS director Dr. Randeep Guleria explained that Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected body fluids, blood, vomit, secretions, or contaminated material. This is unlike Covid-19, which spreads through routine droplet transmission. Therefore, the risk of widespread transmission in India is low if proper precautions are taken.
India's Preparedness for Ebola Detection
Experts noted that India has the laboratory capacity to rapidly detect Ebola through specialized RT-PCR testing at designated centres. However, early clinical suspicion and quick reporting remain essential to prevent any potential spread. Health authorities are on alert and ready to respond if needed.
Overall, while the WHO declaration highlights the seriousness of the outbreak, Indian experts reassure the public that the country is well-prepared to handle any potential cases, and there is no cause for alarm.
