The Sindh Health Department has intensified preventive measures against the Ebola virus at Jinnah International Airport amid growing global concerns over the deadly disease, officials said on Monday.
A high-level emergency meeting chaired by Special Secretary Health Fawad Ghaffar Soomro reviewed preparedness and response mechanisms at the airport to deal with any potential Ebola-related emergency.
Officials from the health department, Airport Security Force (ASF), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and Border Health Services attended the meeting.
Director General Health Dr Waqar Memon, Director PDSRU Dr Asif Syed, and Dr Syed Zafar Mehdi also participated in the session.
Participants reviewed emergency preparedness measures, including strict passenger monitoring, rapid response protocols and strengthening isolation ward arrangements at the airport.
Authorities also decided to ensure the availability of ambulances around the clock to respond to suspected Ebola cases.
Following the meeting, training sessions were conducted for personnel from various departments to improve coordination and preparedness.
Health professionals at the airport received technical briefings on Ebola transmission, surveillance and infection prevention and control (IPC) measures.
Special training was also provided on the safe handling of suspected patients and contact tracing procedures.
Dr Waqar Ahmed Memon highlighted the importance of regular training sessions and mock exercises to strengthen emergency response capabilities.
The Sindh Health Department reiterated its commitment to remaining on full alert to protect public health and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.