Goa starts random testing of 2% international flyers for Covid-19

PANAJI: Two per cent of the international passengers landing in Goa are being randomly tested for Covid-19 in the wake of rise in infections in some countries. The Airports Authority of India (AAI), Goa, on Saturday issued new guidelines for international travellers flying to Goa from December 24 onwards.
On arrival, all the passengers are subjected to thermal screening by health officials present at the point of entry, the AAI has said.
“A sub-section (2% of the total passengers in the flight) will undergo random post arrival testing at the airport. Such travellers in each flight shall be identified by the airlines concerned (preferably from different countries). They will submit samples and shall be allowed to leave the airport thereafter,” said the new protocol.
If such travellers’ samples are tested positive, their samples will be further sent for genomic testing at INSACOG laboratory network and the passenger will “be treated/isolated as per laid down standard protocol”, the guidelines stated.
Children under 12 years will not be tested on arrival. If found symptomatic for Covid-19 on arrival or during the period of self-monitoring, they will undergo testing and will be treated as per laid down protocol, read the guidelines.
“In the wake of a spike in the number of new Covid-19 cases globally, all passengers are requested to stay cautious and adhere to Covid appropriate behaviour for everyone’s safety,” said AAI, Goa. All travellers should preferably be fully vaccinated, it said.
During travel any passenger having symptoms of Covid-19 will be isolated as per standard protocol, which is wearing a mask, being isolated and segregated from other passengers in flight, and being shifted to an isolation facility subsequently for follow up treatment.
“In-flight announcements about Covid-19, including precautionary measures to be followed, will be made in flights and at all points of entry. On arrival, de-boarding should be done to ensure physical distancing,” the AAI has said.