ISKCON NewsThe News Agency of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness

Coughing Travellers May be Detained at Indian Airports

The Government of India has announced new airport screening measures at each of its international terminals in response to the outbreak of H1N1 flu in a number of countries. These measures will take effect immediately.

The screening measures include requiring all travelers arriving on international flights to complete a questionnaire that will be reviewed by health care screeners upon arrival. Travelers who answer yes to any of the questions or show signs of fever or cough may be referred to a doctor and possibly detained for observation. Travelers showing signs of fever or cough during a flight may also be asked to wear a mask for the duration of the flight. Passengers sitting in the vicinity, three rows ahead and back, of the affected traveler may also be given masks to wear and be subject to additional screening upon arrival in India. Travelers arriving from or transiting affected countries, and who have a fever or cough at the time of embarkation, are being asked by Indian authorities to consider postponing their trip.

Travelers to India should be prepared for significant delays upon arrival as these screening measures are implemented.

For further information about H1N1 Flu, please consult the Department of State information the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website or the World Health Organization website.