Mpox Outbreak puts Bengaluru Airport on High Alert - Passengers arriving from African Countries to go through mandatory screening

Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has been placed on high alert following a fresh outbreak of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases in several African countries. 

As per the recent reports, authorities have intensified precautionary measures at the Bengaluru airport, especially for passengers arriving from African nations. As part of the enhanced surveillance, mandatory health screenings will be implemented for all incoming travelers from affected regions.

The move comes in response to a recent spike in Mpox cases globally, particularly in parts of Africa, raising concerns about the spread of the disease. According to health officials, the primary goal is to identify potential cases early and prevent the spread of the virus in India. 

Screening of all international passengers arriving from African countries has begun at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport. Airport officials, in collaboration with Karnataka's health department, have set up dedicated screening areas equipped with thermal scanners, medical personnel, and isolation facilities. Testing of around 2000 passengers will take place daily and individuals displaying symptoms of Mpox will undergo a mandatory 21-day quarantine.   

As per reports, due to the sudden increase in the Mpox cases recorded in several parts of Africa, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had announced Mpox to be a health emergency. The first Mpox case was reported in New Delhi. 

Mpox virus has been reported from Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, Uganda, and very recently, India.

Clade 1b strain is the new strain that has been detected in countries neighboring the Democratic Republic of Congo – Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. The outbreak has sparked concerns globally, with several nations tightening travel restrictions and reinforcing airport surveillance. Bengaluru, being one of India’s busiest international hubs, is now at the forefront of the country’s efforts to contain the virus.