Health authorities across Asia are implementing precautionary measures in response to a Nipah virus outbreak in India, with countries including Thailand and Pakistan introducing health screenings at international airports. The move follows the confirmation of two cases among healthcare workers in Kolkata, West Bengal, on 13 January 2026, sparking travel concerns reminiscent of earlier pandemic protocols.
Understanding the Nipah Virus Threat
Nipah virus is a zoonotic pathogen, primarily transmitted from fruit bats to humans through direct contact or consumption of contaminated food. First identified during a 1999 outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore, it has a case fatality rate estimated between 40 and 75 percent by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Importantly, the virus can be asymptomatic in some individuals, with an incubation period ranging from four to 21 days.
Symptoms and Health Risks
Infected persons may develop a fever accompanied by headaches, confusion, respiratory difficulties, or a persistent cough. Other common symptoms include chills, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In severe instances, the infection can progress to encephalitis or meningitis, causing inflammation of the brain.
Travel Advice and Screening Measures
Despite the outbreak, the WHO has assessed the risk of international spread as "low" and advised against imposing additional travel restrictions. Nevertheless, several nations have proactively enhanced health surveillance. Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan have all intensified screening procedures at airports receiving flights from affected regions, implementing Covid-style checks to monitor travellers.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has not issued specific travel advisories related to Nipah virus for India. General guidance for travellers to India includes avoiding areas within 10 kilometres of the India-Pakistan border and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Geographical Prevalence and Outbreak History
Nipah virus outbreaks are predominantly reported in rural parts of South and Southeast Asia. This marks the ninth such outbreak in India since initial cases were recorded in 2001. Aside from the current situation in West Bengal, India has experienced annual outbreaks in Kerala since 2019, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Bangladesh has also reported near-annual outbreaks since 2001, with previous cases documented in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. No cases have ever been recorded in the United Kingdom.
Protective Measures for Travellers
The UKHSA emphasises that the risk to tourists visiting endemic countries remains "very low" provided appropriate precautions are taken. Key recommendations include:
- Maintaining rigorous hand hygiene practices.
- Thoroughly washing or peeling all fruits before consumption.
- Avoiding contact with bats, infected animals, or pig farms where fruit bats may be present; if contact is unavoidable, use protective clothing.
- Refraining from consuming raw or partially fermented date palm sap; ensure any date palm juice is boiled prior to consumption.
As of 27 January, all 196 contacts of the confirmed cases in West Bengal have tested negative, indicating successful containment efforts. However, vigilance remains crucial for those travelling to or from affected areas.
Vaccination and Treatment Options
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific medication available to prevent or treat Nipah virus disease. Public health strategies therefore focus on reducing exposure and implementing supportive care for infected individuals.
While the Guernsey government continues to monitor the situation, the overarching message from health authorities is one of cautious awareness rather than alarm. Travellers are encouraged to stay informed, adhere to recommended hygiene practices, and follow updates from reliable sources such as the WHO and UKHSA.
