Russia claims new Ebola vaccine as India strengthens surveillance measures

India said a suspected Ebola case in Bengaluru tested negative after isolation and testing. The update came as surveillance remained tightened and Russia announced a vaccine claim for a new strain.

In Short

• The isolated traveller from Uganda had mild symptoms and remained stable
• Samples were sent to NIV, which ruled out Ebola infection
• Airport screening and entry-point surveillance continue under central and state coordination

The Government of India has said there is no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country after a person isolated in Bengaluru tested negative for the infection.

The announcement comes amid growing global attention on Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of Africa and fresh claims by Russia about developing a vaccine against a new Ebola strain.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the individual had recently travelled from Uganda and reported mild symptoms, including body ache. As a precautionary measure, the person was admitted to the State-run Epidemic Diseases Hospital in Bengaluru for observation and medical evaluation.

Health officials said the individual was otherwise healthy and did not show severe symptoms associated with Ebola. A sample was collected and sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for laboratory testing. The result later returned negative for Ebola Virus Disease.

The ministry said it is closely monitoring the evolving Ebola situation globally and remains in constant coordination with state health authorities. Surveillance and screening measures are continuing at airports and other designated points of entry to prevent any possible spread.

Officials also urged citizens not to panic or circulate unverified information on social media. The government said all public health protocols are being followed in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

Ebola is a rare but serious viral disease that can spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms usually include fever, weakness, body ache, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, internal or external bleeding.

Past outbreaks in Africa have led to high fatality rates, making quick isolation and surveillance important.

Meanwhile, Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko announced that Russian scientists have developed a vaccine against a new Ebola strain. According to Russian scientists, the vaccine may also offer protection against the rare Bundibugyo strain, which has been linked to outbreaks in Africa.

Currently, approved Ebola vaccines mainly target the Zaire strain of the virus. Reports suggest researchers from Oxford University and Russia’s Gamaleya Institute had been working on a vaccine for rarer strains as well. However, details regarding large-scale trials or international approval of the new vaccine are still awaited.

Indian health authorities said the country remains prepared and vigilant as global health agencies continue to track developments related to Ebola outbreaks and vaccine research.

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