Pune Airport Begins Screening International Passengers for Monkeypox Amid Global Outbreak

Pune, 22nd August 2024: In response to the rapidly spreading monkeypox outbreak, particularly in Africa, Pune Airport has intensified health screenings for passengers arriving from abroad. The airport has implemented thermal scanning to monitor the temperature of incoming passengers, and has prepared isolation facilities for suspected cases at Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital.

Monkeypox, a viral disease that has emerged in several countries, was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). Following this declaration, the Union Health Ministry issued directives to curb the spread of the virus in India. In line with these directives, Maharashtra’s public health department released a set of guidelines, emphasizing the need for heightened surveillance at airports, seaports, and healthcare facilities. The guidelines also include the establishment of testing laboratories and health facilities dedicated to screening and managing monkeypox cases.

Pune Airport, which receives daily flights from Dubai and Singapore, has implemented stringent health checks. Each flight typically brings in approximately 150 passengers, all of whom are now subject to temperature checks via thermal scanners upon arrival. If a passenger is found to have a fever, they are further examined for rashes and other symptoms indicative of monkeypox.

The airport health officials have been directed to work closely with the Pune Municipal Corporation’s health department to ensure a coordinated response. Dr. Suryakant Deokar, Assistant Health Officer at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), confirmed that the screening process began on the night of August 20. “We have reserved 10 beds at Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital for the isolation of suspected monkeypox patients,” he said. “Our health department is in constant communication with the Airport Health Officers to manage the situation effectively.”