Mangaluru: Following a sharp rise in Ebola virus cases reported in several African nations, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo, authorities have intensified precautionary measures and health surveillance systems at Mangaluru International Airport (MIA). Special screening protocols have been introduced in response to directions issued by the Central Government to strengthen monitoring and prevent any possible risk of disease transmission into the country.
The heightened alert comes amid growing concern over the spread of the virus in affected regions. Health officials have begun implementing additional safety procedures and have increased surveillance for passengers arriving from countries considered to be at risk. Authorities stated that these measures form part of a broader nationwide strategy aimed at strengthening preparedness and ensuring timely intervention if required.
Screening measures strengthened at airport
Health department officials have been instructed to conduct detailed medical screening for all passengers who are unwell and arriving from or travelling through countries currently experiencing Ebola cases. Nations under active monitoring include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan.
Officials said the screening process includes assessing symptoms and reviewing travel history of passengers arriving from the identified regions. The aim is to quickly identify individuals who may require medical attention and prevent any possible public health concern.
Passengers who display signs of illness or report symptoms linked to infectious diseases will be subjected to further medical evaluation. Authorities said the screening process has been designed to ensure both passenger safety and public health protection.
Self-reporting guidelines issued for passengers
The health department has also issued specific instructions regarding passengers who may have come into close contact with infected individuals abroad.
Under the directive, any passenger who may have had direct exposure to blood or body fluids such as sweat, saliva or other bodily secretions of symptomatic individuals must immediately inform health authorities after arrival. Such passengers have been instructed to report directly to airport health officers or designated health desks before proceeding with immigration formalities.
Officials said self-reporting plays an important role in ensuring early identification and medical assessment. They stressed that cooperation from passengers would be essential in effectively implementing preventive measures.
Health authorities also clarified that these instructions are intended to strengthen precautionary monitoring and do not indicate the presence of confirmed cases in the region.
Additional health personnel deployed
Authorities have taken further steps to improve preparedness by increasing the number of medical screening staff stationed at the airport.
Additional personnel have reportedly been assigned to manage passenger monitoring and ensure that all health checks are carried out efficiently. The increase in manpower is expected to assist in handling any rise in passenger movement while maintaining strict screening standards.
Officials said preparations are also underway in coastal districts to establish facilities capable of handling emergency situations if required. Measures include strengthening medical infrastructure and ensuring that quarantine and isolation arrangements are readily available.
Quarantine and isolation facilities identified
As part of emergency preparedness efforts, authorities have identified designated facilities to handle any suspected cases that may emerge in the future.
Srinivas Port Hospital under the New Mangalore Port Authority in Panambur has been identified as a quarantine centre where individuals requiring observation can be accommodated if necessary.
In addition, Wenlock District Hospital has been prepared as an isolation and treatment facility. Officials stated that the hospital has been kept ready with infrastructure and arrangements required for managing suspected cases if the need arises.
Health authorities confirmed that no passengers arriving from Ebola-affected countries have been reported at the airport so far. However, they said precautionary measures are being maintained at the highest level as part of proactive disease surveillance efforts.
The intensified screening process reflects ongoing efforts by authorities to ensure preparedness and prevent any potential health risks. Officials also urged the public to remain calm and rely only on information released through official channels.