Pakistan on High Alert After Nipah Virus Cases Reported in India

The deadly Nipah virus cases in India have sparked concern in the region, prompting several countries, including Pakistan, to take immediate precautionary measures. A high alert has been issued in Pakistan to prevent the possible spread of the virus and screening has been tightened at all airports, seaports and land borders.

According to officials, 100% screening of passengers arriving in and transiting Pakistan has been made mandatory, while the travel history of each passenger for the last 21 days will also be verified. Special surveillance has been directed on people coming from Nipah virus-infected or high-risk areas, and no one will be allowed to enter the country until thermal screening and medical examination are completed.

According to news agencies, due to fears of the possible spread of Nipah virus, strict screening of passengers at borders and airports has also been started in Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Nepal.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has described the Nipah virus as extremely dangerous and warned that the mortality rate among those infected with it could be 40 to 70 percent. According to the world organization, there is no vaccine available to prevent the Nipah virus, due to which it is very important to take precautionary measures.

On the other hand, Indian authorities have clarified the situation and said that Nipah virus was confirmed in two health workers in the Indian state of West Bengal last December. According to the Indian Ministry of Health, 196 people who came in close contact with the infected people were tested, all of whose reports came negative.

The Indian Ministry of Health has also emphasized that some false and misleading information is being spread on social media regarding the Nipah virus, while the ground realities are the opposite. Officials say that the situation is under control and continuous monitoring of the virus is underway.

What is Nipah virus?

According to experts, Nipah virus is an infectious disease that is usually transmitted to humans by fruit bats. The virus can also be spread through infected animals, contaminated food, or close contact with an infected person. Its symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, difficulty breathing, mental confusion, and in some cases, brain inflammation.