Research shows that fruit bats are the virus’s natural hosts. While Nipah circulates among bat populations throughout Asia and Africa, human infections have largely been limited to South and Southeast Asia.
There is still no proven treatment or vaccine for the Nipah virus.
Tightened health screening
Treatment for Nipah is mainly supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms as they occur. The WHO recommends preventive steps such as avoiding raw date palm sap or fruit that may have been contaminated by bats, ensuring food is thoroughly cooked, and minimizing contact with infected people or animals.
Officials believe the current outbreak in West Bengal began within a hospital setting. Initial positive cases included a male and female nurse, followed by a doctor, another nurse, and a hospital staff member.
Although Nipah has not typically caused widespread outbreaks, several Asian countries are now taking precautionary measures to reduce the risk of transmission.
Nepal, Thailand, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have all strengthened health screening for travelers arriving from the affected region, reintroducing measures similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Travelers passing through Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket airports are now being screened for fever and other symptoms associated with the virus. Health authorities are also distributing “beware” cards, advising passengers on what to do if they begin to feel unwell.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said, “Thailand’s Department of Disease Control screens travellers from West Bengal, India at Suvarnabhumi & Don Mueang airports starting 25 January amid Nipah virus outbreak. Health officials implement strict measures as passengers show excellent cooperation at checkpoints.”
Nepal has introduced checks at Tribhuvan International Airport as well as at major land border crossings with India. In Taiwan, health authorities are preparing to classify Nipah virus infection as a Category 5 notifiable disease, the highest alert level for serious emerging infections under the country’s public health laws.
China, which imposed strict controls during the COVID-19 pandemic, has reported that no Nipah cases have been detected domestically. However, state broadcaster CCTV said on Tuesday that the risk of imported cases remains, citing China’s disease control agency.