Sri Lanka on alert on Nipah virus cases in India

Nipah virus symptoms range from asymptomatic to severe, appearing 4–14 days after exposure. Initial signs include fever, headaches, muscle pain, sore throat, and vomiting, often followed by severe respiratory distress and rapid-onset encephalitis (confusion, dizziness, seizures) 

By Sheain Fernandopulle

Sri Lankan health authorities are closely monitoring developments following the detection of a cluster of Nipah virus infections in India’s eastern state of West Bengal, amid heightened surveillance measures across parts of Asia.

A senior Health Ministry source in Sri Lanka said the situation is being closely observed and that necessary precautions are already in place. “Sri Lanka is on alert and continues to monitor the regional situation very carefully. At present there is no immediate threat, but further action will be taken if required, based on developments and guidance from international health authorities,” the source said.

Airports in several countries, including Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan, have strengthened health screening and precautionary protocols after Indian authorities confirmed at least five Nipah cases, including infections among healthcare workers. Nipah virus, which spreads between animals and people, is classified as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) because of its potential to trigger an epidemic. There is no vaccine to prevent infection and no treatment to cure it.

Previous outbreaks have reported fatality rates ranging between 40% and 75%, and there is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment.