Ebola alert in Odisha, instructions to AIIMS
Odisha: The Odisha government has intensified its preparations for the Ebola virus, placing the health system on high alert. A woman who recently arrived in Bengaluru from Uganda has been placed in isolation after experiencing Ebola-like symptoms. Her sample has been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, for confirmation testing, and the final report is awaited.
In light of this, the Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department has initiated special preparations to address a potential outbreak in the state. The department has directed AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, to reserve six to eight beds for isolation and treatment of suspected Ebola cases arriving at the Bhubaneswar airport. A formal communication has also been sent to the institute’s director in this regard.
According to health department officials, early detection, quarantine, and isolation are the most important steps to prevent the spread of any infectious disease. As part of this strategy, the state is strengthening monitoring of passengers arriving at airports to promptly identify any suspected cases.
According to the instructions, if any passenger at Bhubaneswar Airport is found with Ebola-like symptoms or is suspected, they will be immediately sent to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. There, they will be kept under special observation and provided with the necessary treatment to prevent any potential risk of infection in a timely manner.
The Health Department has also clarified that the state’s health system is being prepared for any emergency, and all relevant institutions have been put on alert. Emphasis is also being placed on increased coordination between the airport, hospitals, and the Health Department to ensure prompt action in any suspected case.
According to experts, Ebola is a serious and contagious virus that can prove dangerous if not identified and treated promptly. Therefore, this government preparation is being seen as a precautionary measure.
While the situation in the state is currently under control, the Health Department is maintaining vigilance and strengthening surveillance systems to prevent any potential risks.
