Pakistan Increases Vigilance Amid Nipah Virus Threat
LAHORE – The federal government of Pakistan has issued a nationwide health alert to prevent the possible spread of the deadly Nipah virus. Authorities have been instructed to enforce strict preventive measures at all international entry points.
The Border Health Services circulated an advisory describing Nipah virus as a highly dangerous zoonotic disease that can transmit from animals to humans and through human-to-human contact. The advisory highlighted the virus’s high fatality rate and emphasized the importance of early detection and rapid containment.
Enhanced screening procedures are now in effect at airports, seaports, and land crossings. All incoming passengers, including transit travelers, will undergo thermal scanning and medical checks. Crew members of international flights, ships, and buses will also be screened before they can enter the country.
Authorities have been directed to verify the travel history of arrivals for the past 21 days, with extra attention on travelers coming from countries reporting Nipah virus cases. Officials will formally document any false travel declarations.
The advisory also mandates the disinfection of incoming aircraft, ships, and buses with germicidal sprays. Suspected cases will be immediately isolated and prevented from onward travel, while designated hospitals and isolation centers will manage confirmed and suspected patients.
Officials have been alerted to watch for symptoms such as fever, headache, difficulty breathing, and drowsiness. Any lapses in screening or monitoring will be treated as serious negligence. Daily records of suspected and confirmed cases will be maintained at entry points and shared with the National Command and Operation Centre.
The alert notes that the World Health Organization has raised concerns over Nipah virus, citing suspected cases in India’s West Bengal. Health authorities stress that effective screening, timely diagnosis, and continuous monitoring are critical to preventing the virus from entering and spreading in Pakistan.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE