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An outbreak of the Nipah virus in West Bengal, India, has prompted several Asian countries to tighten airport and border screenings. Thailand is now screening passengers arriving from West Bengal at three airports, while Nepal has started checks at Kathmandu airport and key land crossings with India.
Five healthcare workers in West Bengal have tested positive, with one in critical condition. Around 110 people who had close contact with them are under quarantine. Nipah, which spreads from animals like fruit bats and pigs to humans, can also pass between people and has a high fatality rate of 40–75%. No vaccine or approved treatment exists.
Symptoms range from fever and headaches to severe encephalitis, which can be fatal. The virus was first identified in Malaysia in 1998 and has caused outbreaks in Bangladesh, India, and southern Kerala in recent years.
Authorities in Thailand and Nepal say they are confident in preventing further spread, while Taiwan is considering listing Nipah as a “Category 5 disease” to enforce stricter monitoring and control measures.
