New Delhi: The World Health Organization’s declaration of the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) has raised global concern, particularly among multinational organisations and employees involved in international travel.
The outbreak, currently active in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment currently exists.
While the announcement has triggered anxiety globally, health experts stress that panic is neither necessary nor helpful. Instead, individuals and organisations are being advised to stay informed, follow official advisories and strengthen preparedness measures.
WHO raises global alert over Ebola outbreak
On May 17, the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak a global public health emergency.
According to reports, by May 24, health authorities had recorded 867 suspected cases and 204 suspected deaths across the Ituri, South Kivu and North Kivu provinces of the DRC.
Cases were also confirmed in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, raising concerns about possible regional spread.
The outbreak’s seriousness is heightened by the fact that it involves the Bundibugyo virus strain, which currently lacks a targeted vaccine or treatment.
Ebola is not airborne, experts stress
Health professionals have emphasised that Ebola spreads very differently from illnesses such as COVID-19 or influenza.
The virus is not airborne and generally spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected symptomatic person or through handling infected bodies.
Experts clarified that routine office interactions, casual travel or sitting near someone on a flight does not typically pose a major risk unless the infected individual is symptomatic.
Common symptoms include sudden fever, severe headache, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain and unexplained bleeding.
Travel advisories and workplace preparedness become important
The Government of India recently issued travel advisories related to affected African nations, prompting several organisations to review their preparedness strategies.
Companies with operations or employees travelling to African regions have been advised to closely monitor official health advisories before approving business travel.
Experts say organisations should revisit business continuity plans, pandemic preparedness frameworks and occupational health systems to avoid disruptions if the outbreak escalates further.
Employees urged to report symptoms immediately
Health authorities have urged travellers returning from affected regions to remain alert for symptoms and immediately inform healthcare providers about their travel history if they fall ill.
Early reporting and timely isolation remain among the most effective methods to prevent transmission.
Medical experts also continue to stress the importance of basic hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and water.
Social media misinformation raises concern
Public health professionals warned against relying on unverified social media posts and rumours related to the Ebola outbreak.
They advised individuals and organisations to follow updates only from credible sources such as the WHO, national health authorities and authorised workplace health channels.
Experts said misinformation can create unnecessary fear and workplace anxiety that may impact productivity and mental well-being.
Employee mental health support gains importance
With global health emergencies becoming increasingly frequent, organisations are also being encouraged to strengthen Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and mental health support systems.
Experts noted that anxiety and uncertainty during health crises can significantly affect workplace morale and productivity.
Providing employees with reliable information, counselling support and transparent communication can help reduce fear and improve preparedness.
Preparedness remains key, experts say
Health experts believe global health emergencies are becoming a recurring reality in an interconnected world, making preparedness more important than ever.
They argue that the financial and operational costs of preparedness remain significantly lower than the impact of being unprepared during a crisis.
Authorities continue to advise the public to remain calm, informed and vigilant while following official guidance related to the Ebola outbreak.