In response to the rising global threat of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), Bangladesh's airports, including Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), have increased their preventive measures to mitigate the risk of the virus entering the country.

Comprehensive health screenings for all incoming passengers have been implemented, with thermal scanners being used to detect elevated body temperatures, which is an early symptom of Mpox. Dhaka Airport Director, Group Captain Kamrul Islam, emphasized the importance of vigilance among airlines and airport authorities to prevent the spread of the virus.

“We have informed airlines to be vigilant,” Kamrul Islam said, highlighting that any passengers showing symptoms will be offloaded at their origin before reaching Bangladesh. Upon arrival in Dhaka, symptomatic individuals will be detected and counseled for further action. Passengers showing signs of the virus, such as skin lesions or fever, will be immediately transferred to designated hospitals, including Kurmitola General Hospital and the Infectious Diseases Hospital, for further testing and isolation.

Group Captain Kamrul Islam reassured the public that "No cases have yet been identified with the virus." The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is closely coordinating with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the Ministry of Health to ensure all protocols are strictly followed.

Chittagong’s Shah Amanat International Airport has also implemented measures to prevent the spread of Mpox, with specialist doctors now monitoring the airport around the clock.

Globally, the World Health Organisation has declared Mpox a public health emergency due to its rapid transmission and significant mortality rate, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare. The virus, which causes severe skin rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, has spread beyond Africa, prompting countries to strengthen their health screening and quarantine protocols at points of entry.

In Bangladesh, the government remains on high alert, urging citizens to report any symptoms related to Mpox within 21 days of international travel. The public is also advised to contact health hotlines if they suspect they may have contracted the virus.