The Union Government has instructed all states to strengthen precautionary and preventive measures to stop the spread of the Ebola virus. Following this order, the Tamil Nadu Public Health Department announced that the Centre’s guidelines will be implemented across the state due to concerns over the increasing spread of Ebola. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. After this announcement, the Union Health Ministry advised all states, Union Territories, and central ministries in India to improve disease preparedness and prevention measures.
Although the risk of Ebola spreading in India is considered low, the government stressed the need for strong preparedness and public awareness because of international travel and trade. Authorities have been asked to remain alert at every level of the healthcare system. The government has also intensified monitoring measures, hospital preparedness, and testing facilities for Ebola. Screening procedures at airports and checks for passengers arriving from foreign countries have been strengthened. Travelers are being guided through self-declaration forms and thermal screening processes. In addition, collecting and verifying details of international passengers has now been made mandatory as part of the preventive measures.
