DGCA issues SOPs for airlines after WHO declares Ebola public health emergency

The DGCA measures aim to ensure early detection, isolation, and containment of potential cases. Representational Pic

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for airlines to strengthen preparedness against Ebola following a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) declared by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The outbreak has been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda.

WHO declares Ebola outbreak as global health emergency

The move comes after WHO, on May 17, 2026, classified the ongoing Ebola outbreak as a global health emergency. The advisory has prompted India's aviation regulator to tighten surveillance and preparedness measures for international air travel.

Countries at risk and precautionary measures

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has issued precautionary guidelines, identifying countries bordering the affected regions, including South Sudan, as high-risk zones for potential disease transmission.

Mandatory passenger screening and declarations

Airlines operating direct or indirect flights connected to Uganda and the DRC have been instructed to ensure mandatory collection of Self-Declaration Forms (SDF) from all passengers originating from or transiting through the affected countries before de-boarding in India.

In-flight announcements and health monitoring

The SOP also requires airlines to conduct in-flight health announcements advising passengers to report symptoms such as fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, or bleeding to cabin crew and medical personnel upon arrival.

These measures aim to ensure early detection, isolation, and containment of potential cases.

Andhra Pradesh sets up Ebola screening camp at Vijayawada International Airport amid global health alert

Amid heightened global health surveillance, the Andhra Pradesh Health Department has set up an Ebola screening camp at Vijayawada International Airport on Tuesday, ANI reported.

Medical teams deployed by the AP Government are conducting health screening for passengers arriving from Singapore as a precautionary measure.

Officials said thermal screening and symptom checks are being carried out to identify any suspected cases and ensure public safety.

(With ANI inputs)