Monkeypox Screening

Monkeypox Screening at Airports

As the global outbreak of the monkeypox virus (mpox) continues to raise concerns, Pakistan has taken significant steps to prevent its spread within the country. The Federal Ministry of Health has implemented strict guidelines for Monkeypox screening, isolation, and preventive measures at all international airports.

This article provides a detailed look into how Monkeypox screening is conducted at airports in Pakistan, the modes of screening, the number of passengers tested, the costs involved, and the mandatory nature of these tests for passengers traveling to and from Pakistan.

Current Situation

Pakistan confirmed its fifth mpox case in Peshawar, with a 33-year-old patient quarantined in Lower Dir after traveling from the Gulf. Airport screening failures highlight the need for stronger measures. Authorities urge increased surveillance, improved screening at entry points, and public awareness to control the virus’s spread.

Airports Conducting Monkeypox Screening

A traveler arriving on a PIA flight from Jeddah on September 14, 2024, showed symptoms of mpox at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport after monkeypox screening. The passenger, whose identity remains undisclosed, was immediately isolated and transported to a government-run isolation ward in Sindh for further testing and evaluation to ensure public safety.

Monkeypox screening is conducted across several major international airports in Pakistan to ensure that passengers entering or leaving the country are not carrying the virus. The key airports involved in this process include:

• Jinnah International Airport, Karachi
• Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore
• Islamabad International Airport
• Multan International Airport
• Sialkot International Airport
• Peshawar International Airport
• Faisalabad International Airport
• Quetta International Airport

These airports are equipped with the necessary facilities to conduct thorough Monkeypox screening of passengers arriving from abroad or departing from Pakistan.

Modes of Monkeypox Screening

The screening process involves multiple steps to ensure that any potential cases of mpox are identified and isolated promptly. The key modes of screening include:

1. Thermal Scanning:

All incoming passengers are subject to thermal scanning at the airport’s entry points. This non-invasive method checks for elevated body temperatures, a common symptom of mpox.

1. Visual Inspections:

• Trained personnel conduct visual inspections of passengers to identify any visible signs of mpox, such as rashes or lesions, which are characteristic of the disease.

1. Symptom Checks:

• Passengers are asked about symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, gland swelling, and exhaustion. These are initial symptoms of mpox that could indicate a potential case.

1. Isolation and Quarantine:

• If a passenger is suspected of having mpox, they are immediately isolated in a designated area within the airport. Quarantine measures are also enforced for individuals who have been in close contact with a confirmed case.

1. Contact Tracing:

• In the event of a confirmed mpox case, the authorities initiate contact tracing procedures to monitor all individuals who were in proximity to the infected person during the flight or at the airport.

Number of Passengers Screened

In a recent update, it was reported that 18,479 passengers arriving in Pakistan were screened in just one day. The breakdown of screenings by airport is as follows:

• Jinnah International Airport, Karachi: 4,595 passengers
• Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore: 4,964 passengers
• Islamabad International Airport: 4,790 passengers
• Multan International Airport: 1,871 passengers
• Sialkot International Airport: 802 passengers
• Peshawar International Airport: 991 passengers
• Faisalabad International Airport: 320 passengers
• Quetta International Airport: 146 passengers

These screenings are part of the comprehensive measures taken by the authorities to prevent the spread of mpox within the country.

Cost of Screening and Test Fees

As of now, there is no fee charged to passengers for the mpox screening conducted at airports. The screening process is part of the government’s public health measures and is provided free of cost. This ensures that all passengers, regardless of their financial status, are screened thoroughly without any financial burden.

However, if a passenger requires further testing beyond the initial screening (e.g., laboratory tests to confirm mpox), there may be additional charges depending on the nature of the test and the facilities involved. Passengers are advised to check with the relevant authorities or airlines for specific information regarding any additional fees.

Mandatory Nature of Monkeypox Screening

For Incoming Passengers:
Mpox screening is mandatory for all passengers arriving in Pakistan from abroad. This measure is crucial to prevent the importation of the virus, especially in light of the recent global outbreak.

For Outgoing Passengers:
While the screening is primarily focused on incoming passengers, outgoing travelers may also be subject to screening, particularly if they exhibit symptoms or have been in contact with a confirmed case. The screening is not mandatory for all outgoing passengers but may be required based on health guidelines or destination country requirements.

In some cases, passengers may need to provide health clearance, which is linked to the issuance of a visa on arrival, ensuring that they are not carrying the virus.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s proactive measures in screening for mpox at international airports reflect the country’s commitment to safeguarding public health. With comprehensive screening protocols, isolation measures, and contact tracing in place, the authorities are well-prepared to manage the potential spread of the virus. The absence of fees for screening further ensures that all passengers are treated equitably, making the process accessible and efficient.

As the situation evolves, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about any changes in screening protocols or travel requirements. Compliance with these measures is essential for the safety of all travelers and the broader community.