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Plague Scare: Russia Tourist Screening Urged in Goa
7 Oct
Summary
- Russia sees a death of a lab worker from suspected pneumonic plague.
- Opposition leader calls for health screening of Russian tourists in Goa.
- Goa tourism officials await WHO advisory before implementing checks.
A laboratory worker's death in Russia's Irkutsk region due to suspected pneumonic plague has raised public health concerns in Goa, particularly as the coastal state welcomes its tourist season.
Russian authorities reported the worker died on October 2, but they claim there is no risk of an epidemic. Despite this, the World Health Organization has requested more information from Russia to clarify conflicting reports and assess potential risks.
In response to the developments, the Opposition Leader in the Goa Assembly urged the government to implement immediate health screening for all tourists arriving from Russia. He highlighted that while tourism is vital, the safety of residents must be prioritized.
Goa's tourism director stated that no advisory has been received from the WHO or any other health body regarding the situation. He indicated that any necessary corrective measures would be taken if health regulators issue an advisory. The tourism season commenced recently with charter flights arriving from Russia.
