Nipah virus outbreak in India triggers Asia airport screenings

BBC News - WorldEN 3 min read 100% complete January 27, 2026 at 09:02 AM

AI Summary

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A Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India, has prompted increased airport screenings in parts of Asia. Thailand and Nepal have implemented screening measures for arrivals from West Bengal due to the outbreak that has infected five healthcare workers, with over 100 contacts quarantined. Nipah virus, which can spread from animals to humans and through contaminated food, has a high mortality rate and no approved treatment or vaccine. The virus was first identified in Malaysia in 1998 and has since caused outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, including previous cases in West Bengal and Kerala. The World Health Organization considers Nipah a priority disease due to its epidemic potential.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Singapore 35% Kathmandu 40% Bangladesh 40% Malaysia 40% Kerala 45% Nepal 50% Thailand 50% World Health Organization 55% Asia ×265% West Bengal ×475% India ×485% Nipah virus ×995%

Keywords

nipah virus 100% outbreak 80% airport screenings 70% transmission 60% symptoms 60% west bengal 50% quarantine 50% public health 40% mortality rate 40%