Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has spread panic in neighbouring countries including China, has been detected in Bangladesh. In this situation, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) authority has issued special instructions to control
the virus.
HSIA's Executive Director Group Captain Muhammed Kamrul Islam sent a letter to all airlines and airport-related parties in the country regarding the instructions on Monday.
The directive states that, as per the Directorate General of Health Services, everyone related to the airport has been asked to take precautionary measures regarding HMPV. However, there is no need to panic about the matter for now.
All passengers, staff and visitors of the airport have been encouraged to wear face masks and use hand sanitizers. If anyone develops symptoms of HMPV such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, they should immediately inform the airport health service.
It also said that domestic and foreign airlines operating flights to the country's airports must also take precautionary measures when bringing passengers from their respective locations and from countries where HMPV patients are present.
If anyone on the plane develops symptoms of HMPV such as fever and cough, they must immediately inform the airport health service.
Airline crew and passengers have been instructed to familiarize themselves with health guidelines on how to handle HMPV patients on flights. The letter also asks them to follow seven guidelines issued by the DGHS.
