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.