Good Practices for Managing Acute Respiratory Viral Infections at Aerial Entry Points: A Scoping Review

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Abstract
Background Aerial entry points are critical in the international spread of infectious diseases, underscoring the need for effective management of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVIs). Recent global outbreaks, including COVID‑19, have highlighted the importance of strengthened public health measures at air borders. However, evidence on ARVI management strategies at these points remains fragmented. This scoping review mapped and synthesized existing approaches to quarantine protocols, contact‑tracing methods, and advanced or innovative technologies used at aerial entry points. Methods We conducted a scoping review following the Arksey and O’Malley framework, refined by Levac et al., and reported in accordance with PRISMA ScR guidelines. Scientific databases were systematically searched for English language studies published between 2003 and 2024 that described the management of ARVIs at air borders. Data from eligible studies were charted and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify and categorize quarantine approaches, contact tracing strategies, and advanced or innovative technologies applied in these settings. Results A total of 80 studies were included in the review, addressing diseases such as COVID 19, influenza, SARS, and Ebola. Most studies were conducted in high income countries and in regions of Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific. Various quarantine approaches were identified, including mandatory quarantine, risk based quarantine, and home based isolation strategies. Contact tracing methods ranged from traditional manual approaches using passenger information to technology supported systems that improved the speed of identifying exposed individuals. Several studies reported the use of advanced digital technologies such as digital health passports, geofencing monitoring systems, and electronic reporting platforms to support monitoring, compliance, and data management during public health responses at air borders. Conclusion The findings highlight the diverse range of quarantine protocols, contact tracing approaches, and emerging technological tools used to manage ARVIs at air borders. Despite these developments, evidence regarding the effectiveness and long term implementation of these strategies remains limited. Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base and support evidence informed policies for managing respiratory infectious diseases at international points of entry.
Funding Information
  • Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (43013183)

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