Malaysia Remains Nipah-Free, Authorities Strengthen Surveillance and Biosecurity Measures

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 23: Malaysia remains free from the Nipah virus, the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) confirmed today, while reiterating that the country is maintaining a high level of vigilance following recent reports of human infections in West Bengal, India.

DVS stated that continuous monitoring and preventive measures are being enforced nationwide to prevent the virus from entering and spreading within Malaysia. As the agency responsible for animal health and zoonotic disease prevention, DVS is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the country’s Nipah-free status is preserved.

According to DVS, surveillance activities are carried out annually on domestic pigs and wild boar populations for early detection of the virus. In 2025, more than 2,000 samples from domestic pigs and 48 samples from wild boars were tested, with all results returning negative for Nipah. Import controls are also in place, allowing only pork products from Nipah-free countries to be brought into Malaysia.

Fruit bats, commonly known as flying foxes, have been identified as the natural reservoir of the Nipah virus, while pigs can act as amplifying hosts that increase the risk of transmission to humans and other animals if biosecurity measures are inadequate.

DVS also highlighted clinical signs of Nipah infection in pigs, including respiratory symptoms such as coughing and nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and neurological symptoms such as tremors and seizures. High infection rates can occur within farms, although mortality rates may vary.

Pig farmers, especially those operating near fruit orchards or areas that attract bats, are urged to remain alert and strengthen farm biosecurity practices. Farmers are advised to monitor bat activity, reduce environmental factors that attract bats, and report any suspicious illness in livestock immediately.

Nipah is a notifiable disease in Malaysia, and all suspected cases must be reported to DVS. The department reassured the public not to panic and to rely only on official sources of information to avoid misinformation.

DVS reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding animal health, protecting the livestock industry, and ensuring public health safety through continuous preparedness and surveillance efforts.