Myanmar Tightens Airport Screening to Block Nipah Virus from India

Myanmar has intensified health screening and surveillance at Yangon International Airport in response to the ongoing Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India. Authorities are focusing particularly on travelers arriving from India, conducting checks for fever and other symptoms associated with the virus, according to the Ministry of Health and reported by The Global New Light of Myanmar.

As part of the preventive measures, informational leaflets are being distributed to passengers, and posters highlighting disease symptoms and precautions have been displayed across the airport. Airport authorities are working closely with health and security departments to implement these enhanced surveillance protocols.

Enhanced screening is also being carried out at Mandalay International Airport, the ministry said. Officials emphasized that, so far, Myanmar has not reported any suspected cases of Nipah virus, but proactive monitoring is being maintained to prevent potential transmission.

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Nipah virus, a zoonotic disease, can spread from animals to humans and, in some cases, via human-to-human contact. Classified as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization due to its epidemic potential and high mortality rate, the virus has caused outbreaks in India and Bangladesh over the past two decades.

Health experts warn that transmission can occur in healthcare settings and among close contacts of infected patients, especially in overcrowded or poorly ventilated facilities lacking strict infection control measures. Currently, no licensed vaccine or specific treatment exists for Nipah virus infection, making early detection and containment critical.

Myanmar’s proactive airport measures underscore the urgency of preventing cross-border spread. Authorities have urged travelers to report symptoms immediately and adhere to health advisories, while continuing to raise awareness about preventive hygiene and infection control to minimize risks.

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