Gujarat health authorities have issued an alert after a man who recently arrived from the Democratic Republic of Congo was quarantined in Ahmedabad over suspected Ebola-related symptoms. The traveller has been isolated as a precautionary measure, and his samples are sent for laboratory testing, officials said.
The passenger arrived in Ahmedabad from Congo and had symptoms that made airport health officials concerned, said a preliminary report. The person was immediately switched to a quarantine facility for close observation and further examination, according to medical professionals.
The Gujarat Health Department has sent blood samples to a specialised laboratory to determine if he has contracted the Ebola Virus Disease. Contact tracing measures have also been initiated to identify and monitor individuals who might have been in close contact with the traveller during transit.
Health officials have told the public not to panic, and that every step necessary to be taken in line with national and international health guidelines is being taken. Medical teams are monitoring the situation closely and more surveillance has been intensified at airports and entry points in the state.
Ebola is a rare but severe viral disease and spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, and internal or external bleeding in severe cases. The disease has previously been seen in Africa (especially in Congo and neighbouring countries).
The test results will be shared once the test results are received, and the quarantine protocols and emergency preparation measures are in place to avoid any possible spread of infection,” they said.
