Chennai airport takes steps to check Zika virus threat

With the Zika virus spreading rapidly to different countries, Chennai airport officials are taking steps to monitor incoming passengers. A report in Deccan Chronicle states that those arriving at the international terminal will be checked as a precautionary measure against the Zika virus.

An important measure is vector surveillance which is being conducted to eliminate the breeding grounds of the Aedes mosquitoes which carry the Zika virus. The vector surveillance is now being conducted by the state government and the airports authority within 400 metres around the city airport. All the stakeholders including immigration officials have been sensitised, adds the report.

According to an airport official, there are now signages at the airport to inform those flying out and arriving about the Zika virus. There are also in-flight spraying operations that are taking place and immigration officials have been told to check on anyone displaying symptoms. Airlines have been informed of the do's and don'ts as well. 

At this point, there are no direct flights from Chennai to the affected countries, but transit points are a concern.