Vijayawada: Following the medical and health department's decision to screen international passengers at airports amid the Ebola outbreak in African countries, authorities at Vijayawada International Airport have commenced screening of incoming travellers. On Tuesday, airport officials conducted medical screening of passengers arriving from Singapore at a dedicated Ebola screening facility established within the airport premises.
First Day Screening Details
A total of 185 passengers were screened on the first day at the special medical camp set up at the airport. Individuals exhibiting symptoms will be immediately quarantined, and those who have been in close contact with them will undergo prompt medical examination, an official from the airport director's office stated.
Mandatory Procedures for All International Travelers
The official added that preventive screening has been made mandatory for all international passengers. Travellers are required to fill out self-declaration forms detailing their travel history upon arrival. Earlier, Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav announced that necessary precautionary measures have been implemented across the state in view of the rising cases, spread, and mortality associated with the Ebola virus in several African nations.
Government Preparations
The government has also set up dedicated isolation wards with 15 beds each in hospitals located in cities with international airports. These measures aim to contain any potential spread of the virus and ensure rapid response to suspected cases.
