Chattogram: Hazrat Shah Amanat International Airport (HSAIA) authorities have issued seven special instructions for screening the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has caused concern in China and neighboring countries. The airport authorities have requested that passengers wear face masks, use sanitizers, and maintain a distance of at least three feet.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, HSAIA Director Group Captain Sheikh Abdullah Alamgir issued an order on Wednesday to all airliners operating in Chattogram and relevant airport officials, instructing them on the measures. The notification mentioned seven instructions to prevent the possible spread of the infectious virus.
Passengers, staff, and visitors at the airport have been encouraged to wear face masks and use hand sanitizers. The letter stated that if anyone shows symptoms of HMPV, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, they should immediately report to the airport health services. Domestic and foreign airlines operating at the airport are instructed to take precautionary measures, especially for passengers coming from countries where HMPV cases have been reported.
The source added that if anyone shows symptoms of fever or cough on a flight, it must be immediately reported to the airport's health services. The notification also mentioned avoiding contact with infected people, and all in and adjacent airport facilities must keep a distance of at least three feet.
The virus was first detected in China at the beginning of January 2023. It was subsequently identified in Japan. Recently, outbreaks of the virus have also spread in Malaysia and India.