CAA orders precautionary measures at airports amid mpox threats

Called for provision of isolation facilities for suspected passengers; regular cleaning, disinfection of lounges

Listen to article

ISLAMABAD/ KARACHI:

Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued directives for implementing necessary precautionary measures at airports across the country to prevent the spread of monkeypox (mpox).

The CAA has instructed that coordination between the health department and local authorities be ensured, and the availability of ambulances at airports be secured.

The authority also called for the provision of isolation facilities for suspected passengers, along with regular cleaning and disinfection of airport lounges.

The first cases of the mpox outside of Africa were recorded this week, in Sweden and Pakistan. There are three strains of the virus, of which one is the new more deadly and more transmissible Clade 1b which prompted the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday to declare an international health emergency - the agency's highest alert.

In addition, the CAA has advised international flight crews to wear masks and gloves. It has also mandated the provision of hand sanitisers for passengers and accompanying staff, and the thorough disinfection of restrooms, counters, and all luggage belonging to international travellers.

Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Health, Dr Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, announced on Saturday that the government has developed a comprehensive strategy to protect the public from  mpox virus.

Speaking at a press conference, Dr Ahmad assured the public that there is no need for alarm, as only one case of mpox has been reported in Pakistan so far.

He outlined that surveillance and screening measures have been implemented at all airports and entry points across the country to monitor potential cases. Dr Ahmad stated that laboratories in the provinces, including the federal capital, have been designated for the diagnosis of mpox.

Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique on Saturday announced that no case of monkeypox has been reported in Punjab so far, while an alert has been issued to the authorities concerned.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday instructed authorities to maintain strict vigilance against the spread of mpox after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared its outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.

During a high-level meeting on the measures being taken to curb the spread of the mpox virus, the prime minister emphasised the need for effective screening at airports, seaports, and borders. He also directed border health services to keep the situation under close surveillance.