Pakistan on high alert over possible Nipah virus spread after India cases

The government has issued a nationwide health alert amid fears of a possible spread of the Nipah virus following reported cases in India, and has imposed a high alert at all entry points into Pakistan.

According to Border Health Services Pakistan, the move has been taken in light of a report by the World Health Organization (WHO). As part of the preventive measures, 100 per cent screening has been made mandatory at all international airports, seaports and land border crossings.

Officials said all passengers, airline crew members and drivers entering Pakistan will undergo full health screening. No individual will be allowed to enter the country without clearance from Border Health Services.

Authorities have also made it mandatory to verify the complete travel and transit history of all incoming passengers for the past 21 days. Special surveillance has been directed for passengers arriving from, or transiting through, Nipah virus–affected areas.

Thermal screening and medical examinations have been made compulsory at all points of entry. Instructions have been issued for immediate action in case a passenger is found with fever or other suspicious symptoms.

Health officials said symptoms of the Nipah virus include fever, headache, body pain, shortness of breath and neurological complications. Directions have been issued to immediately isolate suspected patients and report cases to the relevant health authorities.

The government has also recommended legal action against individuals who conceal or misrepresent their travel history, officials added.