Pakistan Tightens Health Screening Following Nipah Virus Cases in India
Pakistan has introduced stricter health checks at its borders. This move follows confirmed Nipah virus cases in neighboring India. The country is now among several Asian nations tightening entry screening as a precaution.
India confirmed two infections in late December. However, Indian authorities state there is no outbreak and no need for screening at their own airports. In contrast, Pakistan and other regional countries are taking preventive steps.
Enhanced Screening at All Points of Entry
Pakistan’s Border Health Services issued a mandatory order. All travelers entering by air, land, or sea must undergo thermal screening and a clinical assessment. They must also provide a 21-day travel history to check for visits to high-risk regions.
Authorities stated these strengthened measures are imperative. The goal is to enhance preventative surveillance at the nation’s borders. Travel between Pakistan and India is already extremely limited, with no direct flights.
Other Asian nations have implemented similar precautions. Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam have also tightened airport screening. For example, Hanoi is screening passengers, especially those from India.
Understanding the Nipah Virus Threat
The Nipah virus is a rare but serious infection. It can cause fever and severe brain inflammation, with a high mortality rate between 40% and 75%. Crucially, there is no approved vaccine for it.
Transmission between humans is not easy. It typically requires prolonged, close contact with an infected individual. The virus spreads mainly from infected animals, particularly fruit bats, to people.
India has sought to reassure the public. Officials have traced 196 contacts linked to the two cases, with none showing symptoms or testing positive. They maintain the situation is contained.
Pakistan’s proactive measures reflect a regional trend of caution. While the immediate risk is assessed as low, the high fatality rate of the virus justifies vigilant border health policies.
