Cab. Secretary reviews preparedness on Novel Coronavirus, samples of 20 passengers found negative

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : The situation arising out of Novel Coronavirus outbreak in China is being reviewed regularly by the Health Ministry and the Cabinet Secretariat. Secretaries in the Ministries of Health, External Affairs, Civil Aviation, Shipping, Defence, I&B and Member Secretary, National Disaster Management Authority are participating in the reviews. Screening of passengers with travel history from China has been extended to 13 more airports taking the total to 20.

The Health& Family Welfare Ministry is procuring more thermal scanners for faster screening. Four more labs besides NIV, Pune, have been geared up for testing clinical samples. Ministry of Shipping has initiated screening at all major ports. Till January 27, 2020, 155 flights were screened (total cumulative passengers 33,552). Samples of 20 passengers have so far been tested by NIV Pune.  All were found negative, according to a PIB release.

The MEA has made a formal request to China for facilitating evacuation of Indian Nationals from Wuhan.  Civil Aviation Ministry will make the necessary arrangements for evacuation after approval of the Chinese authorities is received.  Meanwhile, Indian Embassy in Beijing is in contact with the Indian nationals.  On evacuation, these individuals will be kept in quarantine for 14 days. Necessary arrangements in this regard are being made.

The Health Ministry is reviewing the preparedness and screening in all the states daily through video conferencing with Chief Secretaries and Health Secretaries.