Malaysia Strengthens Health Screening at International Entry Points Amid Nipah Outbreak in India

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 28: The Ministry of Health (KKM) has intensified health screening measures at international entry points, particularly for travelers from high-risk areas, following reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India.

In a statement today, KKM said surveillance has been enhanced through strict on-site monitoring and strengthened laboratory capacity to ensure early detection of potential cases.

Health facilities are also on high alert, with preventive measures and infection control practices being strictly implemented. Cross-sector and inter-agency cooperation continues to be reinforced to protect public health and prevent the potential emergence of Nipah cases in Malaysia.

“Although Malaysia has not reported any Nipah cases since 1999, KKM remains vigilant against the risk of cross-border transmission, following sporadic outbreaks in other countries,” the statement said.

Continuous monitoring is being conducted in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia under the One Health approach. So far, no Nipah virus has been detected in either domestic or wild animals, KKM said.

The public, particularly travelers to high-risk areas, are advised to maintain personal hygiene, avoid contact with sick animals, and refrain from consuming potentially contaminated products. Travelers from affected regions should monitor their health and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.

KKM reminded that Nipah virus infection is a notifiable disease under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342). Malaysia has not reported any new cases since successfully containing the outbreak in September 1999.

Nipah is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the Nipah virus (NiV), with fruit bats (flying foxes) serving as the natural reservoir. Human infection can occur through direct contact with body fluids of infected animals, consumption of contaminated food, or contact with body fluids of infected individuals.

Symptoms typically appear within 5 to 14 days and include fever, headache, vomiting, cough, difficulty breathing, seizures, confusion, and disorientation. Severe complications include encephalitis (brain inflammation) and respiratory problems, with fatality rates ranging from 40% to 75%, according to KKM.