Officials in the Health Ministry said they are closely monitoring the recent outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, following the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Senior officials of the ministry, including officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), ICMR and other concerned divisions, have reviewed the evolving situation and initiated precautionary public health measures.
A senior official in the ministry has clarified that there is no reported case of Ebola in India and the current risk to the country remains minimal. However, as a matter of abundant caution, surveillance and preparedness measures are being strengthened at points of entry and within the public health system.
The officials have suggested a review of standard operating procedure for screening, surveillance, quarantine and case management.
Laboratory preparedness will be strengthened, with NIV Pune being designated for testing and additional laboratories will be on-boarded in phases; enhanced coordination with relevant ministries and agencies for monitoring international travel from affected regions; identification and readiness of isolation and quarantine facilities at major airports and ports are the key measures.
