Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Jaipur, Jun 7: Health authorities in Rajasthan have ruled out Ebola infection in a Ugandan woman who was admitted to an isolation ward at RUHS Hospital in Jaipur after displaying symptoms that initially raised concerns about the deadly viral disease.
The confirmation came after laboratory analysis conducted by the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, returned a negative result for Ebola, bringing relief to both medical officials and the public.
The woman had arrived in Jaipur early Friday aboard an Air Arabia flight travelling from Uganda via Sharjah. During routine health screening procedures at Jaipur International Airport, medical personnel identified symptoms that warranted further evaluation under established public health protocols.
As a precautionary measure, she was immediately shifted from Terminal-1 of the airport to the specialised isolation facility at RUHS Hospital, where she was placed under close observation in a dedicated critical care unit designed for suspected Ebola cases.
Hospital officials noted that while the traveller exhibited certain symptoms associated with infectious diseases, her condition remained stable throughout her stay and she did not develop any severe complications.
Following standard disease surveillance procedures, doctors collected samples and sent them to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for comprehensive testing. The results have now conclusively ruled out Ebola infection.
Earlier, RUHS Superintendent Dr. Anil Gupta had emphasised that symptoms alone were insufficient to diagnose Ebola and that laboratory confirmation was essential before reaching any conclusion regarding the patient's condition.
Although the suspected case has been cleared, the Rajasthan Health Department has reiterated its commitment to maintaining strict surveillance of international travellers. Authorities said airport screening mechanisms and inter-agency coordination continue to be strengthened to ensure rapid response to any potential public health risks.
Medical experts point out that while Ebola is not as easily transmissible as some respiratory diseases, it remains one of the world's most serious viral infections due to its high fatality rate. Consequently, all suspected cases are handled with extreme caution and in accordance with international health and safety guidelines.
The negative test result has effectively dispelled concerns surrounding what was believed to be Rajasthan's first suspected Ebola case, underscoring the importance of vigilant screening and timely laboratory testing in safeguarding public health.