A 28-year-old woman from Uganda who was isolated in Bengaluru after reporting mild symptoms has tested negative for Ebola virus disease (EVD), officials said on Wednesday. The development comes as Indian health authorities intensify monitoring measures following a rise in Ebola cases in parts of Africa, reported PTI.
The woman, who had recently travelled from Uganda, was admitted to the state-run Epidemic Diseases Hospital in Bengaluru as a precautionary measure after she complained of mild body ache, reported PTI.
Sample tested at NIV Pune returns negative
According to official sources, a sample collected from the woman was sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for laboratory testing, reported PTI.
The test result later confirmed that she was negative for Ebola virus disease.
Officials said the woman from Uganda is currently in stable condition and does not have any serious symptoms.
“The individual is otherwise healthy now,” a source said, adding that the isolation was part of standard precautionary public health measures.
Centre closely monitoring Ebola situation
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is closely monitoring the evolving Ebola situation following recent outbreaks reported in several African countries.
Health authorities said surveillance mechanisms have been strengthened in coordination with state governments, and all required protocols are being implemented in line with guidelines issued by the World Health Organization, reported PTI.
Officials reiterated that no confirmed Ebola case has been detected in India so far.
The ministry also stated that screening and monitoring activities are continuing at designated international entry points and across the public health system to ensure early detection of any suspected infections.
Citizens have been advised not to panic or circulate misinformation regarding Ebola-related developments.
Andhra Pradesh strengthens preparedness measures
Amid growing global concern over the outbreak, health authorities in Andhra Pradesh have also stepped up preparedness measures.
The Andhra Pradesh Health Department has established an Ebola screening facility at Vijayawada International Airport to monitor incoming passengers, particularly those arriving from Singapore.
Medical teams deployed at the airport are conducting thermal screening and symptom checks to identify possible suspected cases.
Passengers are also being advised to immediately report symptoms such as fever, vomiting, weakness or any unusual bleeding history.
Officials clarified that the screening exercise is a preventive step following international health alerts and that there is no immediate cause for concern.
Vijayawada hospital sets up dedicated Ebola ward
Meanwhile, A Venkateswara Rao, Superintendent of Vijayawada’s Government General Hospital, said the hospital has established a dedicated Ebola ward with six to eight beds and necessary medical equipment, reported PTI.
He said awareness and training programmes are being conducted for hospital staff, including nurses and sanitation workers, over the past two days to improve emergency preparedness.
“At present, there is no recorded evidence of Ebola infection here. Depending on the situation, we will expand arrangements if needed,” Rao said, reported PTI.
He added that the hospital is equipped with oxygen support systems, ventilators and other emergency medical facilities to handle any future situation if required.
Ebola outbreaks trigger global health concerns
The heightened monitoring in India comes amid a rise in Ebola cases in Central and East Africa, particularly linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.
(With inputs from PTI)
Woman from Uganda isolated in Bengaluru tests negative for Ebola
