In light of the declaration of a global emergency of the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda by the World Health Organization (WHO), Pakistan has intensified screening measures at the country’s airports, along with other precautionary measures.
According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination on Saturday, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal ordered authorities to implement strict precautionary screening protocols at all airports to prevent possible spread of the virus.
The ministry said the current Ebola outbreak remains confined to the African countries of Congo and Uganda, citing WHO reports that no cases have been detected outside Africa so far.
Travelers intending to visit African countries are advised to review relevant travel and health guidelines before departure.
Read: WHO describes the risk of an Ebola epidemic in Congo as “very high” at the national level
The ministry further said that no case of Ebola had ever been reported in Pakistan or neighboring countries, adding that Pakistan faced very low risk due to limited travel links with affected African states.
However, following WHO guidelines to strengthen preventive surveillance, health authorities have intensified surveillance and preparedness measures nationwide, although no travel restrictions have been recommended.
The Health Minister said preventive measures were being taken proactively in the face of the recent spread of the virus, stressing that “effective measures are being taken to protect the public from outbreaks.”
The Ministry of Health and the National Institute of Health are continuously monitoring the situation in coordination with WHO.
Learn more: Ebola deaths in eastern Congo rise to 131, WHO expresses deep concern
Authorities have ordered all provinces and border health services to remain vigilant, while the Ministry of Health and its affiliated institutions have been placed on high alert to respond to any emergency situations.
The ministry noted that Pakistan had the capacity to diagnose Ebola and said guidelines had been issued to ensure that all necessary arrangements and preparedness measures were in place.
Health authorities are also working in close coordination with WHO to monitor developments related to the outbreak.
