Suspected Ebola Case Detected in Bengaluru Amid Global Alert

Suspected Ebola Case in Bengaluru

As the Ebola virus spreads across African nations, a suspected case has emerged in Bengaluru. On Saturday, May 23, 2026, a 28-year-old woman from Uganda was placed in isolation immediately after arriving at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). The Karnataka health department acted swiftly under safety protocols, placing the woman under observation. Health officials collected samples from her and dispatched them to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for thorough testing. Currently, they are awaiting the medical report.

Health Precautions Taken

According to officials, the woman, who had traveled from an Ebola-affected region, was transferred from a hotel to a designated hospital as a precautionary measure after she exhibited mild symptoms such as body aches. They confirmed that her samples have been sent to the NIV for analysis, and further tests will be conducted as per protocol.

Current Condition and Monitoring

Officials reported that the woman's condition is currently stable, and health authorities are closely monitoring her status. A health department representative noted that due to her recent travel to an Ebola-affected area and the subsequent appearance of mild symptoms, she was moved to the Epidemic Diseases Hospital as a precaution.

Ebola Declared a Public Health Emergency

On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda as a 'Public Health Emergency of International Concern' (PHEIC).

Health Advisory Issued

In response to the Ebola outbreaks in several African countries, the Karnataka health department advised individuals who have recently traveled to affected regions to monitor their health for 21 days upon returning. The department emphasized that anyone displaying symptoms should report to the nearest health center immediately, while Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) will conduct monitoring activities.

Isolation Centers Established

In Bengaluru, the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases (RGICD) has been designated as an isolation center, while the Epidemic Diseases Hospital has been appointed for quarantine and treatment. In Mangaluru, the Srinivas Port Hospital, under the New Mangaluru Port Authority (NMPA), has been marked as a quarantine center, and the Wenlock District Hospital has been designated for isolation and treatment.