BACKGROUND
Points of Entry of Pakistan serve as key conduits for international travel, transport and trade. Central health establishment is the key stakeholder in the implementation of Core Capacities of International Health regulations IHR-2005 and National Action Plan 2020 for Covid-19. A comprehensive screening plan (more than 4 million passengers till date) had been carried out effectively despite few limitations.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate system attributes of health screening measures for COVID-19 at Points of Entry as per CDC guidelines
To identify the strengths and weaknesses
To formulate recommendations for the improvement of system
METHODS
A Descriptive Study on CDC (Centre for disease control) Guidelines for Health Screening was conducted at Directorate of Central Health Establishments from March 2021 to May 2021. The CDC Guidelines are based on 11 attributes, to be implemented for Covid 19 health screening at POE. These includes legal and regulatory bodies to detain the traveler as Suspect, Isolation and coordination at POEs. Funds for screening , Quarantine facilities with provision of necessities along with communication channels to quarantined travelers, referral healthcare facilities for POEs, protocols for primary and secondary screening, capacity building ,supply of PPE and screening tools, isolation areas and provision of basic facilities at POEs. Data was collected using both Qualitative and Quantitative methods. Questionnaires were filled online and In-depth interviews of In charges and Quarantine assistants of Points of Entry were done. Analysis of Traveler’s surveillance management Information System of Central Health Establishment was done.
RESULTS
The 11 Attributes of Health screening as per CDC guidelines had been addressed and well implemented at POEs by Central health Establishment under flagship of Ministry of National health Services, Regulation and coordination. Primary Health screening of inbound travelers was 4088119. Secondary Health screening referred 415 suspects to Hospitals. PCR tests performed at Airports on Inbound Travelers was 74833 with 0.6% positivity rate .Total international flights screened during study period were 19130.
CONCLUSIONS
Preparedness and Response of Points of Entry for Covid 19 is in line with National Action Plan of Government of Pakistan and IHR 2005.