India-Africa Forum Summit postponed amid Ebola outbreak concerns

Representation pic/istock

India and the African Union have postponed the India-Africa Forum Summit scheduled in New Delhi next week as concerns grow over Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa, prompting India to tighten airport surveillance and issue a nationwide health advisory.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the decision was taken after consultations with the African Union leadership to ensure "full participation and engagement" while remaining mindful of the evolving public health situation.

Even as no Ebola case has been detected in India, the Centre has intensified screening protocols for passengers arriving from high-risk African nations and reviewed preparedness measures with all states and Union Territories.

India advisory

>> Advisory issued for travellers from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan
>> Symptomatic passengers asked to report before immigration clearance
>> 21-day monitoring period advised after arrival
>> SOPs shared for screening, quarantine and case management
>> No Ebola case detected in India so far

Timeline

May 18: WHO declares Ebola outbreaks a PHEIC
May 19: AU says summit would discuss future pandemics
May 20: Centre reviews Ebola preparedness with states
May 21: India issues advisory and postpones summit

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