Vijayawada, May 26 (IANS) Authorities at Vijayawada International Airport in Andhra Pradesh began preventive screening of international passengers for Ebola on Tuesday.

This came after the Union Ministry for Health and Family Welfare declared an alert in view of the Ebola virus in several African countries.

An official at Vijayawada airport said that preventive screening for Ebola has been started for international passengers. All international passengers have been requested to fill out a self-declaration form for travel history after arrival.

The official said the screening was taken up as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

State Minister for Medical and Health, Satyakumar Yadav, on Sunday announced that necessary precautionary measures have been implemented in the state in light of the widespread prevalence, rising case counts, and increased mortality rates associated with the Ebola virus across several African nations.

He expressed particular concern regarding the high rate of Ebola virus transmission in countries such as Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.

Following warnings issued by the World Health Organisation, as well as specific guidelines, advice, and recommendations received from the Central government, the state minister declared that the Medical and Health Department is fully prepared to effectively combat the spread of the Ebola virus and manage potential cases.

He announced that measures are being taken to ensure close coordination between airport authorities and the Medical and Health Department officials of the respective districts.

This coordination aims to facilitate screening and diagnostic testing for travellers and tourists arriving in the state from the Congo, Uganda and Sudan via the international airports in Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, and Vijayawada.

Officials said that individuals exhibiting symptoms of the virus would be immediately placed under quarantine, and medical examinations would be promptly conducted on those who have been in close contact with them.

Dedicated isolation wards, each equipped with 15 beds, are being established in hospitals located in cities that host international airports.

–IANS

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