Thailand On High Alert Over Nipah Virus Situation In India

BANGKOK, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Thailand is intensifying surveillance of the Nipah virus situation in India and strengthening coordination through the One Health network as a precaution against possible cross-border spread.

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) under the Ministry of Public Health said Thailand remains on high alert following reports of five confirmed Nipah virus cases in West Bengal, India, including infections among healthcare workers near Kolkata.

“Thailand remains on high alert and is strengthening preventive measures by integrating surveillance and preparedness across all relevant sectors through the One Health approach,” DDC said in a statement published on the Public Relations Department website on Friday. 

The DDC said international reports indicate that the disease may initially present with flu-like symptoms, such as fever and headache, but can progress to severe conditions, including neurological complications.

It encouraged the public to stay informed through official channels and to follow health advisories issued by the authorities.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus disease is a zoonotic infection that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, contaminated food, or directly from person to person.

-- BERNAMA