Bengaluru Airport Implements Mpox Testing Amid Outbreak Concerns
Bengaluru, India (Sept. 14, 2024) – In light of the recent Mpox (Monkeypox) outbreak in India, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has initiated mandatory testing for all international passengers. This precaution comes after the first confirmed case of Mpox was detected in Delhi earlier this week. The airport aims to prevent the spread of the virus in Karnataka by screening around 2,000 passengers daily.
KIA has established four dedicated kiosks to ensure thorough testing of international travelers. A designated officer oversees the testing process, ensuring that health and safety protocols are followed. Stringent measures, including isolation zones for suspected cases, have been put in place to manage any potential outbreaks.
A spokesperson for the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) emphasized the airport’s readiness to handle the situation, stating, "KIA is fully compliant with all health protocols issued by relevant authorities in response to the global Mpox situation. International passengers are being thoroughly screened for elevated temperatures as part of the airport's precautions."
Testing focuses on passengers arriving from countries where Mpox is more prevalent, particularly in Africa. Any individual testing positive will be isolated and placed under a 21-day quarantine, following procedures similar to those during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Re-testing will only release passengers from quarantine once they are confirmed free of the virus.
KIA’s medical team is well-equipped to handle any suspected Mpox cases. A senior medical officer at the airport stressed the importance of early detection, as there is no specific treatment for Mpox. Symptoms include fever, skin rashes, severe headaches, and muscle stiffness, which can become life-threatening if left untreated.
As the airport tightens safety protocols, passengers are urged to cooperate with the testing procedures and report any symptoms immediately to prevent the virus from spreading further.
