What is Nipah virus and how does it spread?

Nipah virus spreads to humans from infected bats or contaminated fruit. Person-to-person transmission is rare and typically requires prolonged close contact with an infected person.

What is the risk of Nipah virus spread from recent cases?

The World Health Organization assesses the risk of further Nipah virus spread from the recent cases as low, with no current evidence of increased human-to-human transmission.

Which Asian countries have tightened airport screening due to Nipah virus?

Asian countries including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam have tightened airport screening checks in response to Nipah virus cases.

Home / Health / Nipah Virus Scare: Asia Tightens Airport Scans

Nipah Virus Scare: Asia Tightens Airport Scans

30 Jan

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Summary

Two Nipah virus cases confirmed in West Bengal, India.
Asian nations intensify airport screenings for Nipah virus.
WHO assesses the risk of further Nipah spread as low.

Nipah Virus Scare: Asia Tightens Airport Scans

Two Nipah virus infections recently surfaced in West Bengal, India, triggering increased airport screening across several Asian countries. Locations like Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam have implemented tighter checks to prevent potential transmission.

The World Health Organization has assessed the risk of further Nipah virus spread from these cases as low. They also noted that India possesses the capacity to manage such outbreaks effectively.

Currently, there is no indication of increased human-to-human transmission of the Nipah virus. The two affected health workers in West Bengal are undergoing hospital treatment.