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After the Nipah virus outbreak in India, vigilance has increased in Asian countries. Health checks have been tightened at airports, similar to COVID, including in Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan. In China, before the Lunar New Year travel season, the CDC has called for special vigilance against imported infectious diseases during the Chunyun period from February 2 to March 13. Although the spread of Nipah is difficult, the high mortality rate has raised concerns.
This month, 5 healthcare workers were confirmed with Nipah in West Bengal. Dr. Narendra Kumar Arora, chairman of AIIMS Bilaspur, told ANI that there have been sporadic outbreaks in Kerala and West Bengal. After the death of a person from an unknown illness, 5 workers were infected. Now, screening of 100-200 potential contacts is underway. The mortality rate is 40-75% and no vaccine is available. Monoclonal antibodies are used for treatment, but the supply is limited.
Indian officials assured that the situation is under control. Nipah is a zoonotic virus that spreads from bats, pigs to humans, and through human-to-human contact. Symptoms range from fever, respiratory issues to severe encephalitis. Quarantine is for 21 days. It is also endemic in Bangladesh. According to the South China Morning Post, China is on alert for millions of travelers.
After Nipah cases in India, vigilance increased in Asian countries
Strict health checks started at airports similar to COVID
Nipah has a high mortality rate; vaccine not yet available
High alert issued for travelers by China and other countries