Kolkata Airport Health Official Addresses Airline Concerns Over Nipah Virus
The health officer at Kolkata airport, known as the APHO, has called for a crucial meeting with international airlines operating from the city this Monday. This gathering comes in response to numerous inquiries from carriers based in Thailand and Malaysia regarding the Nipah virus situation in the region.
Meeting Convened at Union Health Ministry's Behest
In an exclusive conversation with TOI, the APHO revealed that the meeting was organized following directives from the Union health ministry. The primary objective is to address the apprehensions raised by several airlines concerning the detection of two Nipah virus cases in the state last month.
The official stated, "Airlines are seeking clarity on the measures implemented against Nipah and whether departing passengers will undergo screening. We will inform them that immediate and thorough public health actions were taken in line with established protocols."
Comprehensive Contact Tracing and Monitoring
According to the health officer, authorities have successfully identified, traced, monitored, and tested a total of 196 contacts linked to the confirmed Nipah virus cases. Importantly, all these individuals tested negative for the virus.
"There is no evidence of community transmission that would justify screening procedures or cause unnecessary inconvenience to passengers," the APHO emphasized, highlighting the effectiveness of the containment measures.
International Airlines Seek Clarification
Specific carriers that have reached out to the Kolkata airport health office include:
- Thai Airways
- Air Asia
- Malaysian Airlines
These airlines have requested detailed information about the preventive measures being adopted at the airport. In response, Thailand has already implemented thermal screening and mandatory health declarations for passengers traveling from Kolkata to their country.
Varied International Responses
While Nepal has also introduced screening measures for incoming passengers, Buddha Air, the private carrier operating in the Himalayan nation, has not approached the APHO regarding the Nipah virus issue. This indicates varying levels of concern among international operators.
Understanding Nipah Virus Symptoms
The Nipah virus, which has raised concerns among international travelers and airlines, can manifest through several symptoms in infected individuals:
- Fever and headaches
- Muscle pain and vomiting
- Sore throat
In more severe cases, these initial symptoms may progress to:
- Drowsiness and altered consciousness
- Pneumonia and respiratory complications
Official Assurance on Current Situation
The Kolkata airport health official reiterated that the current public health response has been robust and effective. "Our primary goal is to reassure all stakeholders that there is no immediate threat from the virus at present," he affirmed, emphasizing the coordinated efforts between local health authorities and the central government.
This proactive approach by airport health officials demonstrates India's commitment to maintaining international health standards while ensuring minimal disruption to air travel operations from Kolkata. The meeting aims to foster better communication between health authorities and airline operators, ensuring accurate information dissemination about the Nipah virus situation in West Bengal.
