Ebola Protocol Triggered for Italians Returning from Uganda with Fever

Two Italian aid workers have been hospitalized at Milan's Sacco Hospital after returning from Uganda with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, prompting health authorities to initiate the Ebola protocol. One patient, a 31-year-old man from Como, presented with fever, nausea, and vomiting. The other, a 33-year-old woman from Como, experienced high fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and confusion.

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could also be malaria

While awaiting test results, health officials, including Guido Bertolaso, the Welfare Assessor for the Lombardy Region, have noted that malaria is also a potential diagnosis. Seven other individuals, including other group members and family contacts, have been placed in precautionary home isolation and are being monitored by health authorities. The aid workers had been in Uganda for three months, working in an area bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

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the risk of Ebola in Italy remains very low

The Italian Ministry of Health has reiterated that the risk of Ebola in Italy is "very low," emphasizing the nation's preparedness and the operational status of its infectious disease response system. European coordination is also being strengthened, with Italy participating in relevant EU health security meetings. Bertolaso also criticized some local officials for making premature statements before test results were available.

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the national system for preparation and response to infectious emergencies is fully operational

Meanwhile, the Ebola epidemic continues to worsen in the DRC, the outbreak's epicenter. The World Health Organization (WHO) director-general has warned that neighboring countries are at high risk and should take immediate measures. Uganda has reported new cases, bringing its total to seven, and Tunisia has enhanced border controls, all amidst escalating violence and chaos in the DRC.

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there is no reason to create alarmism