Covid Alert: Passengers From China Likely To Be Screened At Indian Airports

The Ministry of Health has asked airport officials to screen passengers coming from China in the wake of the rising Covid cases in the neighbouring country.

A healthcare worker collects a swab sample at the Delhi airport (File photo)

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Wary of the rising Covid cases in China, the Ministry of Health has asked airport officials to screen every passenger coming from the neighbouring nation. Sources said screening of such passengers started at airports on Wednesday. 

 The notification comes a day after the Centre asked states to send all positive samples for genome sequencing amid a sudden surge in COVID -19 cases in several countries. According to sources, flyers from other nations where incidents of Covid are on a rise may be subjected to random sampling for Covid-19.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan wrote to all states and Union Territories on Tuesday: "In view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, USA, Korea, Brazil, China it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through the Indian SARS-Cov2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) network. Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same."

The government has also appealed to people to get precaution doses and advised heightened precautions for the elderly and those with comorbidities. However, it has been said that as of now there is no change in regard to aviation.

"Use a mask if you are in a crowded space, indoors or outdoors. This is all the more important for people with comorbidities or are of higher age," VK Paul, Member-Health, NITI Aayog said after a review meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Madaviya on Wednesday.

"In view of the rising cases of Covid in some countries, reviewed the situation with experts and officials today. COVID is not over yet. I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance. We are prepared to manage any situation," Mandaviya said.