The World Health Organization’s declaration of Ebola as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern is a clear warning that the world remains dangerously connected, and a virus outbreak in Africa can quickly become a threat to India. The Government of India has responded swiftly by issuing Standard Operating Procedures and tightening surveillance at all airports and seaports. This is a welcome and necessary step. But preparedness on paper must translate into flawless execution on the ground. The Bundibugyo virus disease, a strain of Ebola with mortality rates between 30 and 50 per cent, has already claimed lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The virus does not respect borders. International travellers can carry it across continents within hours. India, with its high population density and vast network of domestic and international travel, cannot afford any complacency. The Ministry of Health’s directive to intensify screening of passengers arriving from affected countries, mandatory disclosure of travel history, and isolation protocols for suspect cases are all essential measures. However, the real challenge lies in implementation. Are our airports equipped with adequate thermal scanners and isolation bays? Are our healthcare workers trained to handle Ebola cases safely, given that the virus spreads through bodily fluids and requires strict protective gear? Are our state governments ready with identified quarantine centres, isolation hospitals, and rapid response teams? These are not rhetorical questions. They demand immediate answers and action. Ebola is not airborne. It spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. The public must be educated without being terrorised. India has faced health emergencies before — from COVID-19 to Nipah. Each time, the country has shown resilience. But resilience cannot be an excuse for reactive chaos. The time to act is now, before the first case lands on our shores. Surveillance must be rigorous. Training must be intensive. Public awareness must be clear. And every state must be held accountable for its preparedness. Ebola is a test not just of our health infrastructure but of our ability to act collectively and calmly. Let us not fail. Let us prepare, not panic. Let us protect, not postpone. The virus is far away, but its shadow is already at our doorstep.
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