Covid-19 scare: Govt begins random sampling of international passengers at airports

Omicron subvariant BF.7, the strain driving China's current surge of Covid-19 cases, have been detected in India and become a cause of concern for the government.

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The government has started random sampling of arriving international travellers at airports across India, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya told Lok Sabha amid Covid concerns. Ministry of Civil Aviation, in a statement, said they will ensure 2 percent of the total passengers in a flight to undergo Covid tests at the airport on arrival. Such passengers will be identified by the airline on which the passengers are travelling, and will be allowed to leave the airport after giving the sample. Samples testing positive will be sent for genome sequencing.

Recently, sources closer to government confirmed that Random sample testing for coronavirus will be conducted at airports for international passengers arriving from China and other countries in view of the recent surge in cases in some parts of the world. The move comes following a meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to review the Covid situation in the country. "Random sample testing will be done for international air passengers arriving from various countries including China," a source said.

Covid19 | MoCA to ensure 2% of the total passengers in a flight undergo Covid tests at the airport on arrival; Such passengers to be identified by the airline, will be allowed to leave the airport after giving sample. Samples testing positive will be sent for genome sequencing. pic.twitter.com/umEB34Y6Ep— ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2022

Sources said three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7, apparently the strain driving China's current surge of Covid cases, have been detected in India so far. After the meeting, Mandaviya said COVID-19 is not over yet. "I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance. We are prepared to manage any situation."

During the meeting, attended by experts and senior officials, the minister was briefed on the global COVID-19 situation and the domestic scenario, including the preparedness of all stakeholders.

Noting that only 27-28 per cent of India's eligible population have taken the precaution dose of COVID-19, NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul, after the meeting, said people should take the jab and also wear masks in crowded places.

"People should wear masks in crowded areas. Those with comorbidities and old should especially adhere to this," Paul said.

With PTI inputs