Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda reviewed preparedness and surveillance measures to counter the Ebola virus here on Monday, amid concern that the recent outbreak in Africa may spread to other parts of the world.
India has not reported any case of the Bundibugyo Ebola disease to date.
The Ministry said that it is closely monitoring the Ebola situation in Africa and has proactively intensified surveillance and preparedness measures across the country as an abundant precaution to safeguard public health.
“We are working closely with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and other concerned agencies, and have strengthened surveillance and public health preparedness across the country,” said a senior Ministry official.
Meetings have also been held with States/UTs and concerned stakeholders to review preparedness and response measures.
The Ministry has directed all agencies, including the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), to keep tracking, testing, and surveillance apparatus in a constant state of readiness.
On 24th May, India issued a travel advisory for citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Units of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), and Airport Health Organisations have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance for unexplained febrile illness among international travellers and ensure prompt reporting and management of any suspected case.
Ebola causes a severe viral haemorrhagic fever and has a high mortality rate. At present, no approved vaccines or specific treatments are available for Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain.
Published - May 25, 2026 07:47 pm IST
India / health / disease / communicable diseases / viral diseases
Source: The Hindu - India News
