An outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in India's West Bengal state has sparked concern in parts of Asia, with some tightening screening measures at airports.
Thailand has started screening passengers at three airports that receive flights from West Bengal. Nepal has also begun screening arrivals at Kathmandu airport and other land border points with India.
Five healthcare workers in West Bengal were infected by the virus early this month, one of whom is in a critical condition. Some 110 people who were in contact with them have been quarantined.
The virus can spread from animals to humans and has a high death range – ranging from 40% to 75% – as there is no vaccine or medicine to treat it.
What is the Nipah virus and what are its symptoms?
The Nipah virus can be transmitted from animals, like pigs and fruit bats, to humans. It can also spread person-to-person through contaminated food.
The World Health Organization has described Nipah in its top ten priority diseases due to its epidemic potential. The incubation period ranges from four to 14 days, and initial symptoms may include fever, headaches, and muscle pain.
Where were the past outbreaks?
The first recognized Nipah outbreak was in 1998 among pig farmers in Malaysia. Bangladesh has reported numerous deaths since 2001, and previous outbreaks have occurred in India, particularly in Kerala.
What is happening now?
Currently, at least five cases have been reported in West Bengal, leading to significant precautionary measures in neighboring countries like Thailand and Nepal. Taiwan is proposing to classify the Nipah virus as a 'Category 5 disease' to enhance monitoring and reporting.
