Coronavirus outbreak: Pakistan sets up scanners at major airports

At least four patients have tested positive for COVID-19 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: In wake of the novel coronavirus outbreak, the federal government has installed automatic thermal scanners at major airports across the country.

The Ministry of National Health Services joined hands with the Aviation Division to install the scanners at the New Islamabad International Airport, Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport and the Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar.



PHOTO: Express

The thermal scanners, equipped to detect temperatures of passengers at the security checkpoints, are part of the screening mechanism put in place at all points of entry. The health and regular surveillance staff have been provided with protection equipment and kits.

In order to improve the capabilities, latest thermal scanners have been installed at Islamabad International Airport for detecting suspected NCoV passengers arriving via international flights. The machine will turn ON a buzzer as soon as it detects a passenger having temperature. pic.twitter.com/K2hnSuCcFs

— Ministry of Aviation, Govt of Pakistan (@AviMinistryPK) March 1, 2020

On Sunday, Pakistan confirmed another two novel coronavirus cases bringing the total number to four.  “These patients are being handled according to clinical protocols while contact tracing has started,” said Dr Zafar Mirza in a press conference. He added that the two patients who were earlier diagnosed with the virus were in a stable condition and recovering.

A contingency plan has been prepared in case the situation worsens. “Fresh medical staff will be recruited for hospitals where there is a shortage,” he explained. “Some hospitals have been reserved for treating coronavirus cases.”

Read about Pakistan's national action plan to curtail novel coronavirus outbreak here.