Airports across parts of Asia have tightened health surveillance and travel screening after a cluster of Nipah virus cases was confirmed in India’s eastern state of West Bengal.
Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan are among the countries and territories that have stepped up precautionary measures following the confirmation of at least five infections, including among healthcare workers, Indian authorities said. Around 100 people linked to the cases have been quarantined as officials move to contain the outbreak.
Thailand has begun screening passengers arriving from India at major international airports, while Taiwan is moving to classify Nipah as a high-risk notifiable disease, which would require immediate reporting and special control measures.
Nipah is a rare but highly lethal virus that can spread from animals, particularly fruit bats and pigs, to humans and through close human-to-human contact. Past outbreaks have recorded fatality rates ranging from about 40% to 75%, and there is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment.
Health authorities across the region said the enhanced screening measures are precautionary and aimed at preventing cross-border transmission. Officials stressed that no major outbreaks have been reported outside India and urged the public to remain calm while following standard health precautions. (Newswire)
