HMPV virus: Passengers asked to wear masks at Dhaka airport

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has issued directives to implement precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).

The directives were issued a day after a case of HMPV virus was detected in the country.

Following the guidance from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), the directive was issued on Monday and passengers, airport staff and airline crew must comply with these instructions.

According to the notice, any passenger or staff member showing symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath must immediately inform the health service team at the airport.

Besides, wearing masks and using hand sanitisers has been strongly recommended at the Dhaka airport.

According to the notice issued for airlines, precautionary measures will be enhanced for flights arriving from countries suspected to have HMPV outbreaks.

Airlines are also instructed to disseminate these guidelines to both crew and passengers.

The health team at the airport has been asked to conduct health screenings to the passengers who have such symptoms and provide necessary information and assistance to ensure effective implementation of health protocols.

According to airport authorities, symptoms of HMPV resemble common respiratory illnesses and typically resolve within 2–5 days.

However, taking precautions can prevent the spread of the virus.

For further assistance, passengers can contact the airport health team at 01799430033 or the call center at 13600 at any time.

"All stakeholders are requested to follow these directives to prevent HMPV infections. The airport authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of passengers, staff, and visitors,” said HSIA’s Executive Director, Group Captain Mohammad Kamrul Islam.