ISLAMABAD: The National Health Organization (NIH) on Tuesday showed concerns that that the Ebola virus might enter Pakistan from an African country.
The NIH issued on Tuesday an advisory about the possible Ebola outbreak in Pakistan, instructing institutions concerned to stay alert.
Following the outbreak of Ebola virus in some parts of Africa, the Ministry of National Health Services had directed strict surveillance at international airports and other entry points to isolate suspected patients on September 30.
On the directions of the International Health Regulations (IHR), the ministry has directed the Border and Health Services Department to ensure screening of passengers coming from other countries, especially African continent and isolate those with any symptoms of Ebola.
It said that 36 Ebola cases have been reported in Uganda last month resulting in 23 deaths.
The Central Health Establishment will keep an eye on travelers travelling from Uganda, and the NIH will be informed of any suspected Ebola cases arriving in Pakistan, per the advice.
Suspected Ebola cases arriving in Pakistan will be quarantined while samples from suspected cases will be sent for testing under the national guidelines, the NIH said.
From 2000 to 2019, Uganda reported hundreds of deaths from Ebola virus. The most recent outbreak of Ebola in humans is caused by the SUDV virus. According to the advisory, the spread of Ebola is feared on both global and regional levels. WHO in its warning letter has opposed trade and travel restrictions on Uganda despite the outbreak.
