Health Screenings Begin at Indian Airports After Nipah Virus Outbreak

Airports in parts of Asia are tightening health checks after a small Nipah virus outbreak in India, putting travellers—and health authorities—on alert. While the virus sounds scary, doctors say there’s no need to panic, especially for casual travellers.

Five confirmed cases were reported in West Bengal, prompting increased screening measures in countries including Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan. In the UAE, doctors are urging travellers to stay informed, not alarmed.

What’s happening in India?

The latest cases were detected near Kolkata, India’s third-largest city, where about 100 people have reportedly been quarantined. Three of the recent infections involved nurses working at a private hospital, according to local reports.

Health authorities are continuing contact tracing as a precaution. Nipah has also been added to China’s list of monitored infectious diseases, underlining regional caution rather than widespread concern.

What is Nipah virus?

Nipah is a rare but serious viral infection that can spread from animals to humans or through contaminated food. In past outbreaks, it has been linked to fruit or fruit products exposed to saliva or urine from infected fruit bats.

The World Health Organisation estimates the fatality rate at between 40 and 75 per cent, which is why even small outbreaks are taken seriously.

Doctors say risk to travellers is low

Dubai-based neurologist Dr Sagar Kawale says most travellers don’t need to change their plans.

“For most people, the overall risk remains low unless there’s close contact with an infected person or time spent in high-risk settings like hospitals,” he said.

He stressed that Nipah cases are usually localised and don’t spread widely like Covid-19 or influenza.

“The key message is awareness, not fear,” he added.

Symptoms to watch out for

Early symptoms can look like any other viral illness—fever, headache, body aches, or even a skin rash. What raises red flags are neurological signs.

These include confusion, unusual behaviour, extreme drowsiness, seizures, trouble speaking, imbalance, or reduced consciousness. If fever is followed by confusion or fits, doctors say it should be treated as a medical emergency.

How travellers can stay safe

Doctors recommend simple precautions: avoid close contact with people who are unwell, practise good hand hygiene, and stay away from uncovered or fallen fruits, especially street-cut produce.

In outbreak areas, avoid hospital visits unless necessary. If you feel unwell, don’t power through your trip—seek medical help early and tell doctors about your recent travel history.

“For reassurance, most travellers will never encounter Nipah,” Dr Kawale said. “But if fever comes with confusion or seizures, get checked immediately.”