AP Braces up for mpox with Screening at Airport, Isolation Wards in Hospitals Set Up

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to tackle mpox, with new measures including screening of international travelers and the establishment of isolation wards in government hospitals. Visakhapatnam International Airport, serving flights from Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur, has implemented regular screening for arriving passengers. A dedicated health team is now in place to conduct these screenings.

In contrast, Vijayawada International Airport, which handles flights from Sharjah and the UAE, has yet to begin mpox screening but plans to do so soon.

The state health authorities have designated Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences in Tirupati as a nodal lab for mpox testing, while government hospitals in Vijayawada will serve as a nodal facility for treatment. Additionally, district hospitals are being instructed to set up isolation wards for mpox patients.

Health personnel have been tasked with monitoring individuals for symptoms such as rashes and fever, and to raise awareness about mpox. This will help ensure those showing symptoms can promptly seek screening.

Health commissioner C. Hari Kiran confirmed, “Screening of international travelers has begun at Visakhapatnam airport, and all hospitals have been directed to prepare isolation wards to manage mpox cases effectively.”

Following India's first reported case of mpox in a 26-year-old man from Haryana, who was admitted to a Delhi hospital, the state is on high alert, with residents urged to be vigilant and seek medical advice if symptoms arise.