In response to global concerns regarding the Ebola virus, the Andhra Pradesh government has intensified precautionary measures across the state. Dr. Sujana from the GGH hospital in Vijayawada reported that travelers arriving from abroad are under close observation, with screenings being conducted at Gannavaram Airport. For the past 20 days, a screening process has been in place for all international travelers. Passengers arriving from Singapore are screened three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Screening Efforts and Findings
Today, screenings were conducted for 127 travelers arriving from Singapore. Dr. Sujana noted that special screenings were also carried out for Hajj pilgrims who arrived at Gannavaram Airport last week, including sessions during the afternoon and midnight. So far, none of the screened travelers have exhibited any symptoms related to Ebola. Quarantine rooms have been prepared to isolate individuals showing any suspicious symptoms if necessary.
Understanding the Ebola Virus
Ebola disease is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, leading to a viral hemorrhagic fever that is highly severe and has a high mortality rate. Currently, there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this strain of Ebola. The central government has advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. Following reports of outbreaks in Congo and Uganda, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared this situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (IHR) on May 17, 2026.
Continental Health Emergency Declared
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has declared the ongoing outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS). On May 22, the WHO IHR Emergency Committee issued temporary recommendations to strengthen monitoring at entry points to detect, assess, report, and manage travelers suffering from unknown fevers coming from areas where the Bundibugyo virus is confirmed, while also discouraging travel to these regions.
-
Illegal liquor racket busted in Hyderabad; 85 bottles seized
-
PM Modi speaks to Kuwait’s Amir, discusses security in West Asia
-
Delhi court denies interim bail to Al-Falah chairman in ED case
-
‘Fake signature’ row: CID enters Mamata’s residence-cum-office
-
Focus on your studies, we will conduct re-NEET smoothly: Pradhan
