Pakistan has intensified health screening and surveillance measures at airports nationwide after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in Uganda and Democratic Republic of the Congo a global health emergency.
According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, strict precautionary measures are being implemented at all airports across the country to prevent any possible spread of the Ebola virus into Pakistan.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal directed authorities to strengthen health monitoring systems and ensure strict screening protocols for incoming travellers.
Officials stated that, according to WHO reports, the current Ebola outbreak remains limited to affected African countries and no confirmed cases have so far been detected outside Africa.
The ministry advised travellers planning to visit African countries to carefully review health advisories and travel guidelines before departure.
Health authorities further clarified that no Ebola case has ever been reported in Pakistan or neighbouring countries. Officials assessed the current risk level for Pakistan as “very low” due to limited travel connections with the affected regions.
However, as part of global preparedness efforts, Pakistan has enhanced airport screening, emergency response systems and disease surveillance mechanisms in line with WHO recommendations.
The government also confirmed that no travel restrictions have been imposed at this stage, although screening and monitoring procedures have been significantly increased at airports and relevant entry points.
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal stated that the government is proactively taking preventive measures to protect the public from possible epidemics and infectious diseases.
The ministry added that the situation is being continuously monitored in coordination with the National Institute of Health and the WHO.
Provincial governments, border health authorities and emergency health institutions across Pakistan have also been instructed to remain on high alert as precautionary measures continue nationwide.
Officials further stated that Pakistan possesses the technical capability to diagnose Ebola cases if required and confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure operational readiness in case of any emergency.
Health authorities said close coordination with international health agencies would continue while monitoring further developments related to the outbreak.
