Vijayawada: With the World Health Organisation (WHO) sounding an alarm over the rapid spread of Ebola cases in parts of Africa, the AP medical and health department has planned to conduct health screenings for passengers arriving from Ebola-affected countries at the Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Tirupati international airports, with travel history being considered as a key factor in monitoring and testing. Officials said passengers displaying symptoms will be immediately quarantined and those who may have come into contact with them will also undergo medical examination. The health department is coordinating with airport authorities and port officials to strengthen surveillance systems and ensure preparedness. Health minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav on Sunday said the health department has been directed to remain fully prepared to prevent any possible transmission of the virus in the state. The health minister stated that Ebola cases and related deaths are being reported in higher numbers in countries including Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, prompting the government to initiate preventive action based on advisories issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and guidelines from the Centre.The government has also instructed district administrations to remain vigilant and activate emergency response mechanisms if required. Virtual meetings are being conducted with health personnel, including ANMs, ASHA workers, and senior officials, to strengthen awareness and preparedness at all levels.As part of contingency arrangements, teaching hospitals located in cities with international airports are setting up dedicated isolation wards with 15 beds each. The minister said adequate stocks of PPE kits and virus testing kits are available to handle immediate requirements.Appealing to the public, the minister urged people to avoid non-essential travel to Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. He also advised individuals who have returned from Ebola-affected countries during the last three weeks and are experiencing symptoms to immediately contact district health authorities.Health officials noted that Ebola symptoms may take several weeks to appear and commonly include fever, weakness, severe headache, sore throat, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, red eyes, and loss of appetite. Authorities said early reporting and timely intervention will play a key role in preventing the spread of the disease.
