After India confirmed its first case of mpox, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has implemented enhanced safety measures to curb the spread of the virus. In response to rising concerns, the Union Health Ministry issued advisories to major entry points, including airports and seaports, urging them to remain vigilant and effectively manage suspected cases.
Kempegowda International Airport has established four testing kiosks dedicated to screening international passengers, especially those arriving from African countries. Approximately 2,000 passengers are being screened daily, and strict protocols are in place to prevent the virus from entering Karnataka. A spokesperson for Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) stated, “KIA is fully prepared and compliant with all health and safety protocols issued by relevant authorities in response to the global mpox situation. Every international passenger is thoroughly checked for elevated temperatures as part of the screening process.”
The spokesperson also mentioned that a designated officer oversees the entire operation to ensure smooth screening, testing, and tracking procedures. These preventive measures follow the detection of mpox in a 26-year-old man from Haryana, who was admitted to Delhi’s LNJP Hospital. In light of this, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra advised states and union territories to intensify surveillance and testing efforts. Tamil Nadu had earlier raised alert levels, with Airport Health Officers and Port Health Officers focusing on passengers arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African countries, where mpox outbreaks have been more severe.
Hyderabad and New Delhi, popular cities for African students pursuing higher education, were also placed on heightened alert. What additional measures are being taken? Kempegowda International Airport’s medical services, guided by health authorities, are prepared to manage potential cases. If an individual tests positive for mpox, they will be isolated and quarantined for 21 days, following protocols similar to those used during the early Covid-19 outbreak. The BIAL spokesperson emphasized, “The health and safety of passengers and airport personnel are our top priorities, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of precautionary measures.” In addition to testing, the airport will monitor passengers for symptoms such as fever, skin rashes, severe headaches, muscle stiffness, and back pain. A senior airport medical officer told The Times of India, “Seeking immediate medical attention for these symptoms is crucial, as untreated cases can be life-threatening. There is currently no specific treatment for mpox, making early detection and containment essential to preventing its spread.” Mpox spreads through direct contact with infected animals, humans, or contaminated materials. The virus can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets, particularly during prolonged close contact. After treatment, individuals will be retested, and only after the virus is confirmed to be eradicated will they be released. The clade 1b variety of the virus has raised global concern due to its higher transmissibility through close contact. Professor Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the IHR Emergency Committee, said, “The current upsurge of mpox in parts of Africa, along with the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain, poses a global emergency.”
Mpox Threat: Kempegowda Airport In Bengaluru Sets Up Testing Stations For Passengers
