New Delhi: In new measures to step up vigilance against the dreaded Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) disease, the Union Health Ministry on April 24 directed compulsory screening of every arriving international air passenger and wearing of masks by airport officials.

It also decided to set up a Centre-State joint action group to monitor the situation across the country.

Briefing reporters after a high-level inter-ministerial meeting and discussions with state Health Secretaries, Health Minister Sushma Swaraj said that strict instructions have been given to the airport authorities to screen each and every passenger for suspected SARS symptoms.

"I am happy to note that all sates are geared up and they are taking the disease with the seriousness it deserves," she said.

PTI