There is not a single case of Ebola in India, yet why did the Health Ministry suddenly issue a nationwide advisory

In view of the increasing threats of the deadly Ebola virus in some parts of the world, the Indian government has come on full alert mode. The Union Health Ministry has issued a very important and nationwide advisory in this regard. While giving relief to the countrymen, the Health Ministry has clearly clarified that at present not a single case of Ebola has been reported in India. Despite this, to deal with any possible threat in future and to keep the country safe, the government has taken this step as a precautionary measure and has appealed to the people to take special precautions.

Why did the government suddenly issue this advisory?

According to health experts, Ebola is a highly infectious and deadly disease, with a very high mortality rate. Due to global movement and international flights, any virus can spread rapidly from one country to another. Keeping this in mind, the Health Ministry has already started strengthening its preparations. The main objective of the government is to alert the airports, ports and health centers of the country so that suspected patients coming from outside can be identified in time and their entry into the country can be completely prevented.

What precautions has the Health Ministry advised to take?

In the guidelines issued by the ministry, some very important precautionary measures have been mentioned for the general public and health workers. The government has advised that people avoid traveling to countries where there is currently an Ebola outbreak. Additionally, if a person is returning from the affected countries, he or she will have to share their correct travel history at the airport. The advisory recommends paying special attention to personal hygiene, washing hands frequently with soap and water and avoiding direct contact with any sick person.

Do not ignore the symptoms, contact the doctor immediately

The initial symptoms of Ebola virus may resemble common flu or other common diseases, so the government has asked to be alert about it. If a person suddenly complains of high fever, extreme weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat, he should immediately report to the nearest health center. In severe conditions, bleeding may also occur from internal and external organs of the patient’s body. The government has directed health departments to keep isolation wards and stock of essential medicines ready so that any emergency situation can be dealt with immediately.