Headline: Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport Bracing for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as China Outbreak Looms
син Бали’s Ngurah Rai International Airport is taking proactive measures to guard against the potential arrival of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been spreading in China over the past few weeks. The airport’s General Manager, Syaugi Shahab, has revealed that three thermo scanners have been installed—two at the international terminal and one at the domestic terminal—to monitor passenger temperatures. This measure, already in place since the Covid-19 pandemic and to anticipate the Mpox virus, will help detect any suspected HMPV cases promptly. Upon detection, suspected individuals will be referred to the Bali Provincial Quarantine Board (BPKK) for further examination.
Located in the bustling terminals, the thermo scanners ensure that every incoming passenger’s body temperature is checked, maintaining a high level of vigilance. This initiative underscores the airport’s commitment to public health and safety.
It’s important to note that Indonesia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has recently confirmed cases of HMPV, primarily affecting children. Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin has assured the public that while HMPV has entered the country, it is not a new virus and is well-known in the medical world. Symptoms are akin to the common flu, including coughing, fever, runny nose, and breathing difficulties. recovery is usually attained without special medical care. Nevertheless, vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with specific health conditions should take extra precautions.
Keeping oneself healthy is crucial, with practices such as adequate rest, regular handwashing, wearing a mask when unwell, and immediate medical consultation upon showing any suspicious symptoms are strongly advised. Minister Sadikin emphasizes that following the 3M health protocol—masks, distancing, and hand hygiene—is key to managing the spread of HMPV, similar to how it helped control the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite heightened health measures, Ngurah Rai International Airport continues to operate smoothly, serving scores of passengers post the recent Nataru holiday. Throughout the holiday period, the airport facilitated 1.3 million passengers, marking an 8% increase compared to last year’s Christmas season. Total passenger movement in 2024 reached 23.9 million.
Cecep Kurniawan, Head of the Bali Otority Regional Airport IV, shared that while they await further instructions from the Ministry of Health regarding HMPV, they remain prepared with their existing antispread measures. The ministry is tasked with detecting and regulating HMPV, with the airport authorities focusing on maintaining operational readiness and safeguarding the local economy.
Related reading