During times of health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, international airports around the world have implemented various systems to detect and prevent the spread of the virus. Some of the most commonly used systems include:
Thermal screening: This involves the use of thermal cameras to detect elevated body temperatures, which can be a symptom of COVID-19. Passengers with elevated temperatures may be further screened and potentially tested for the virus.
PCR testing: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is a highly accurate method of detecting the presence of COVID-19. Many airports now offer on-site PCR testing for passengers arriving from high-risk areas, or require a negative PCR test result as a condition of entry.
Contact tracing: Many airports are now collecting contact information from passengers in case someone on their flight tests positive for COVID-19. This enables authorities to quickly trace and isolate potentially infected individuals.
Air quality monitoring: Some airports have implemented air quality monitoring systems to detect the presence of airborne particles, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This can help identify areas of the airport where additional cleaning or disinfection may be necessary.
Biometric screening: Some airports have implemented biometric screening technologies, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, to reduce physical contact and the risk of transmission of the virus.
Overall, the systems used in international airports during times of health crises are continually evolving as new technologies and best practices are identified. While these measures may cause inconvenience for travelers, they play an important role in protecting public health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.