Following the outbreak of a new strain of the Ebola virus in Central African countries like Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and South Sudan, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency. As such, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has implemented stringent, round-the-clock containment and screening mandates. India has also issued an Ebola travel advisory so that our borders are well protected against this dangerous strain.
India Issues Ebola Travel Advisory
There has been a spike in the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. This particular strain has raised alarm bells across the globe as it has no approved vaccines. As of May 2026, the outbreak has affected close to 968 people and has claimed more than 216 deaths.
Also Read: WHO Issues International Emergency Over Ebola Outbreak In Congo; What Travelers Must Know
Keeping in mind the dangerous circumstances, India has issued an Ebola travel advisory. As per the advisory, citizens have been advised to avoid non-essential travel, especially to regions like the DRC, Uganda, and Sudan.
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See New Airport Screening Mandates
The DGHS has enforced a multi-layered screening system at major airports. Passengers flying from or through Central Africa will now be required to fill a Self-Declaration Form (SDF) before landing in India.
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Furthermore, any traveler who exhibits symptoms of the disease, such as fatigue, fever, etc., is required to bypass the queues and report it to the Airport Health Officer (APHO) desk. 24/7 thermal screening cameras have also been activated at key checkpoints that will monitor the body temperature of travelers.
Dedicated isolation bays have also been established for the containment as well as transfer of potential symptomatic individuals to designated biocontainment hospitals.
Also Read: India Launches SEHAT, A National Mission To Boost Healthy Lifestyle
Summing Up
The Ebola virus and concerns surrounding it are clearly not to be taken lightly. The proactive measures by the DGHS exhibit the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens against this dangerous disease. Prevention against such a disease requires cooperation from all.
