Thailand Screens 1,700 Travelers Amid India’s Nipah Virus Outbreak

Thailand has ramped up health surveillance at major airports, screening roughly 1,700 passengers arriving from India’s West Bengal state, where a recent Nipah virus cluster was reported. So far, no infections have been detected.

Focus on West Bengal Arrivals

Screening efforts target travelers from Kolkata, the outbreak’s epicenter, primarily entering through Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket airports.

India Reports New Cases

India’s Ministry of Health confirmed two new Nipah cases in West Bengal, both healthcare workers, with 196 close contacts testing negative.

Thailand Implements Preventive Measures

Public Health Minister Phatthana Phromphat said screenings were launched under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s directive last week. Officials remain “fairly confident” the measures will prevent any outbreak.