Pune: In response to the growing threat of monkeypox globally, the Pune Airport has implemented thermal screening for all passengers arriving from international destinations. This precautionary measure was initiated on the night of August 20 to curb the potential spread of the virus.

Health officials are using thermal scanners to check passengers' temperatures, with further evaluations being conducted for those exhibiting fever or other symptoms associated with monkeypox.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared monkeypox a global health emergency, prompting the Indian Union Health Ministry to issue guidelines to all states. In alignment with these directives, the State Public Health Department has instructed airports and health facilities to be on high alert and prepared for immediate action if a case is detected.

The Pune Municipal Corporation has proactively reserved ten isolation beds at Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital to accommodate any suspected cases identified during the screenings. Dr. Suryakant Devkar, Assistant Health Officer, confirmed that the municipal health department is maintaining continuous coordination with airport authorities to manage the situation effectively.

Flights arrive at Pune Airport daily from Dubai and every other day from Singapore, with around 150 passengers on each flight. The health organization team at the airport is conducting screenings of these international passengers.

Passengers' temperatures are measured using thermal scanners, and if a passenger has a fever, they are checked for rashes and other symptoms of monkeypox. If a suspected case is found, airport health officials are instructed to coordinate with the municipal health department.

Dr. Suryakant Devkar, Assistant Health Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation said, "Screening of passengers arriving from abroad began at Pune Airport on the night of August 20. Ten beds have been reserved at Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital to isolate any suspicious cases. The municipal health department remains in constant contact with airport health officials."