Bengaluru's KIA screens passengers daily for Mpox with 4 new testing kiosks

BENGALURU: Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has begun mandatory monkeypox (Mpox) testing for international passengers, following the detection of the country's first case in Delhi this week. Four dedicated kiosks have been placed to ensure all international passengers are tested for the new virus.
Infected individuals from affected countries, especially African nations, will be isolated and placed under a mandatory 21-day quarantine, similar to the precautions taken during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Around 2,000 passengers are being tested daily as part of the airport's stringent precautionary measures to curb the virus from entering Karnataka. The airport has swiftly implemented screening, testing, and tracking systems, with a dedicated officer overseeing the operations.
A spokesperson for BIAL stated, "KIA is fully prepared and compliant with all health and safety protocols issued by relevant authorities in light of the global Mpox situation. All international passengers arriving at the airport are being thoroughly checked for elevated temperatures as part of the screening process. In addition, an isolation zone has been established on site to manage any suspected cases swiftly and efficiently."
Adding: "Our medical services, under the guidance of health authorities, are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. The health and safety of passengers and airport personnel remain our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of precautionary measures."
Following treatment, individuals will undergo re-testing, and only once the virus is confirmed to be eradicated will they be released.
The primary symptoms of Mpox include fever, skin rashes, severe headaches, back pain, and muscle stiffness. "Seeking immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur is important, as untreated cases could become life-threatening. There is currently no specific treatment for Mpox, making early detection and containment crucial to prevent the spread," said a senior airport medical officer.