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In a proactive move to combat the spread of Mpox, Bengaluru airport has established four screening stations to rigorously examine all international travelers arriving at the facility. These stations, implemented by airport authorities, focus on identifying potential cases by checking for elevated temperatures and other symptoms associated with the viral disease. Individuals who test positive for Mpox will be subjected to a mandatory 21-day quarantine, mirroring the stringent protocols put in place during the Covid-19 pandemic. This enforced isolation period aims to prevent further transmission and ensure the safety of the broader community.
A spokesperson for the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has emphasized the airport's preparedness in implementing comprehensive safety protocols to address the evolving situation. The spokesperson stated that all international passengers undergo thorough temperature checks as part of the screening process. This proactive measure reflects the airport's commitment to public health and the importance of early detection in managing potential Mpox outbreaks. The airport's dedication to safety is further underscored by the establishment of an isolation zone designed to handle potential Mpox cases swiftly and effectively. This dedicated area allows for immediate intervention and isolation of infected individuals, preventing the virus from spreading further.
While India has reported one case of Mpox, it is important to note that the strain identified was not the Clade 1b variant, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified as a more virulent form of the virus. Despite this, the airport's stringent screening measures reflect a cautious approach to preventing the spread of Mpox, particularly in light of the WHO's declaration of the disease as a public health emergency on August 14th. The potential threat of Mpox is further evidenced by a suspected case reported at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, involving a traveler arriving from Jeddah who displayed symptoms consistent with the disease.
Mpox, a viral disease initially observed in primates, can be transmitted to humans through various routes. Direct contact with infected animals or person-to-person contact involving bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, or contaminated materials can lead to infection. The establishment of screening stations at Bengaluru airport highlights the critical role that early detection and isolation play in controlling the spread of infectious diseases, particularly in a globalized world where travel patterns facilitate the rapid transmission of viruses. The airport's proactive approach in implementing stringent screening protocols underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of emerging health threats.
Source: 21-day quarantine, tests: Bengaluru airport sets up Mpox testing stations