In response to the surge in monkeypox cases worldwide and the World Health Organization (WHO) warning, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian has lauded the central government’s preventive measures after inspecting the protocols at Chennai Airport.
Chennai International Airport has initiated widespread fever screening for all incoming passengers following a warning from the WHO about the virus’s rapid spread in African countries. The goal is to curb the entry of monkeypox into the state.
Initially identified in Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda, monkeypox is now also reported in parts of the Philippines, Sweden, and Pakistan. In light of this, the Health Department has stepped up its efforts to prevent the virus from spreading further.
Minister Ma Subramanian reviewed the screening process during his visit to Chennai Airport and engaged with officials. He stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary delays for passengers during the screening.
Passengers who appear tired are examined for visible rashes or lesions on their hands and faces. An automated fever screening device has been installed at the airport to detect elevated temperatures. If a passenger shows fever or other symptoms, the device triggers a red light and warning alarm. The individual is then isolated by the medical team and given first aid.
In this regard, DMK Minister Ma Subramanian told reporters, “Monkeypox is spreading rapidly across the globe. First identified in 1958, the virus has now been detected in 116 countries, including many in Africa, America, and China. On the 14th of August, the World Health Organization declared a state of emergency, prompting a serious response from the central health department and handling well.”
“Following the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu’s directives, we have convened a meeting to discuss various preventive measures. Surveillance measures have been implemented at Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, and Coimbatore International Airports. Airports will conduct temperature screenings, and an isolation room is available to promptly address individuals who show signs of fever. Those affected will be transferred to a hospital, where a special 10-bed ward will be established at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital. Similar wards are being set up in Coimbatore and Madurai,” he added.
“Currently, there are no reported cases of monkeypox in Tamil Nadu. However, any symptoms should be reported immediately. Even in Pakistan, cases have been confirmed, so we monitor them vigilantly. The Union Government is effectively managing the monkeypox outbreak,” he added.
#JUSTIN | 'குரங்கு அம்மை தொற்று- மத்திய அரசு சிறப்பாக கையாள்கிறது'#Mpox | #MaSubramanian | #Mpox2024 pic.twitter.com/IWSPfSaMV8
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Minister Subramanian assured that monkeypox is not expected to be as severe as the coronavirus pandemic, but he urged the public to remain cautious and follow preventive measures.
(With inputs from PTNews)
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