Airports across Asia have reintroduced health screening measures similar to those used during the Covid-19 pandemic following an outbreak of the Nipah virus in the Indian state of West Bengal. Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan are among the countries and territories tightening surveillance after two cases were confirmed in the region.
In Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health has stepped up screening at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal. Travellers are being monitored for fever and other symptoms, and health 'beware' cards are being issued. Those with high fever or suspected symptoms may be transferred to quarantine facilities. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed no domestic cases have been recorded but surveillance remains high.
Nepal has raised alert levels and intensified health checks at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and key land border crossings with India. Health desks have been set up to screen travellers, and hospitals have been instructed to report suspicious cases. Officials highlighted challenges posed by open borders and daily movement from West Bengal.
In Taiwan, health authorities plan to list Nipah virus infection as a Category 5 notifiable disease, the highest classification for serious emerging infections. The move, subject to a 60-day public comment period, would require immediate reporting and special control measures. Taiwan maintains a Level 2 travel alert for Kerala state but will update advisories as the outbreak evolves.
The World Health Organisation has described Nipah virus as a priority pathogen due to its epidemic potential. Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat, while severe cases can involve dizziness, altered consciousness and atypical pneumonia.
