New Delhi: Amidst the devastating surge in Covid-19 pandemic in China, India has made RT-PCR tests mandatory for passengers flying in the country from at least five nations. Union Health Ministry Mansukh Mandaviya made the announcement via his Twitter handle. From January 1, 2023, passengers travelling to the country from China & 5 other nations will have to mandatorily show negative RT-PCR report. In a tweet, Health Minister wrote, “Flyers coming from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand will have to upload their reports on the Air Suvidha portal before travel.” RT-PCR test has been made mandatory for flyers coming from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand from 1st January 2023. They will have to upload their reports on the Air Suvidha portal before travel. — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) December 29, 2022 China, being the epicenter of fresh Covid wave, is battling with million cases on daily basis while the death figures have also been overwhelming. Apart from China, passengers from Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore & Thailand have also been put under tight screening. Failing the RT-PCR test, they won’t be allowed in the country. Health experts believe that next 40 days will be crucial for India as much will depend on how India tackles this wave of pandemic. Though, surge in Covid-19 cases hasn’t been ruled out, any significant increase in cases is expected by mid-January. Government has already pressed in mechanisms to contain the spread of contagious virus. Random testing is already being done in international fliers. Mock drills were recently conducted across all hospitals of the country to check their operational readiness & preparedness for combating the deadly virus. People have already been alerted and advised to stay vigilant & cautious of their surroundings as Covid cases are rising across the globe. The latest spike in Covid cases has been triggered by new form of Omicron namely sub-variant BF.7.
