Airports across parts of Asia have reintroduced health screening measures reminiscent of the Covid-19 pandemic following a Nipah virus outbreak 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.
Nipah is a zoonotic virus that spreads from infected pigs and bats to humans, and can also transmit through close person-to-person contact. In West Bengal, 196 contacts of the infected patients were traced, monitored and tested, with all found asymptomatic and negative for the virus, according to the Indian health ministry.
Thailand has stepped up screening at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket airports for passengers from West Bengal, monitoring for fever and symptoms. Health 'beware' cards are being issued, and those with high fever may be transferred to quarantine. The Thai government confirmed no domestic cases but said surveillance would remain high.
Nepal has raised alert levels and intensified health checks at Tribhuvan International Airport and key land border crossings with India. Health desks screen travellers for symptoms, and hospitals have been instructed to report suspicious cases. A health ministry spokesperson said measures were adequate, with individual screening underway.
Taiwan plans to list Nipah virus infection as a Category 5 notifiable disease, the highest classification, requiring immediate reporting. The move is subject to a 60-day public comment period. Taiwan maintains a Level 2 travel alert for Kerala state and will update advisories as the outbreak evolves.
The World Health Organisation has designated Nipah a priority pathogen due to its epidemic potential. Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat, while severe cases may involve dizziness, altered consciousness, atypical pneumonia and respiratory distress.
