Asian airports are increasing health screenings following a recent outbreak of Nipah virus in India, with cases initially detected among healthcare workers in West Bengal. While the situation in India appears contained, with only two confirmed cases reported in Barasat, near Kolkata, several countries are taking precautionary measures to prevent international spread. This heightened vigilance reflects the serious nature of Nipah virus, a zoonotic disease with a high mortality rate.
Nipah Virus: What We Know
Nipah virus is transmitted from animals – including pigs and fruit bats – to humans. It can also spread through close person-to-person contact, and potentially through contaminated food. The World Health Organization has identified Nipah as a priority disease due to its potential to cause epidemics.
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary widely. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and a sore throat. These may progress to drowsiness, altered consciousness, and pneumonia in some individuals. In severe cases, the virus can cause encephalitis, a potentially fatal inflammation of the brain.
The mortality rate associated with Nipah virus is significant, ranging from 40% to 75%, and currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific medications to treat the infection. Monoclonal antibodies are being procured for treatment, but global supplies are limited.
Airport Screening Measures
In response to the outbreak, several Asian countries have implemented or increased screening measures at their airports. Thailand is now screening passengers arriving on flights from West Bengal at three airports. Nepal is screening arrivals at Kathmandu airport and at land border crossings with India. Taiwan has also stepped up surveillance.
Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Indonesia is also increasing vigilance against potential importation of the virus. As of , airport authorities report no confirmed cases among travelers passing through YIA. Screening procedures include requiring international passengers to complete a health declaration via the “All Indonesia” application before travel.
Upon arrival at YIA’s international terminal, thermal scanners are in use to detect elevated body temperatures. These scanners also serve as a tool for educating passengers and providing initial assessment if a traveler reports feeling unwell. Further evaluation, including interviews, epidemiological investigations, and potentially swab tests, may be conducted if necessary. Samples collected for testing are sent to the Balai Besar Laboratorium Kesehatan Masyarakat (Labkesmas) Yogyakarta for analysis.
Currently, YIA is maintaining its standard protocols for identifying and managing influenza-like illnesses (ILI). Airport staff are focused on profiling passengers without disrupting the flow of traffic. Updates regarding preventative measures will be communicated by the Balai Kesehatan Kantor Kesehatan Pelabuhan (BKKP) YIA.
The Current Situation in India
Indian health officials have stated that the outbreak is contained, with only a small number of cases identified. Investigations are ongoing to trace approximately 100-200 potential contacts of the confirmed cases. Importantly, 196 close contacts have been tested and have so far been asymptomatic and negative for the virus.
Kerala and West Bengal are considered endemic regions for Nipah virus. Dr. Narendra Kumar Arora, President of AIIMS Bilaspur, has emphasized the high mortality rate of the virus and the lack of a currently available vaccine.
Quarantine and Incubation Period
The quarantine period for individuals exposed to Nipah virus is 21 days, primarily affecting those in close contact with confirmed cases, such as family members or healthcare personnel. The incubation period for the virus ranges from four to 14 days.
Past Outbreaks and Global Concern
The first recognized Nipah virus outbreak occurred in 1998 among pig farmers in Malaysia, subsequently spreading to Singapore. The virus is named after the village in Malaysia where it was first discovered. The WHO has placed Nipah on its list of ten priority diseases, alongside threats like COVID-19 and Zika, due to its epidemic potential.
While the current outbreak is limited in scope, the ongoing screening efforts at airports across Asia demonstrate a proactive approach to public health and a commitment to preventing the wider spread of this dangerous virus. Travelers are urged to be vigilant for symptoms and to report any concerns to healthcare professionals.