Islamabad: In a decisive move to curb the potential spread of the deadly Nipah virus, Pakistan has announced stringent health checks at all points of entry, including airports, seaports, and land border crossings. The decision makes Pakistan the latest Asian nation to implement heightened surveillance in response to confirmed Nipah cases in neighbouring India.
According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, all travellers entering Pakistan are now required to undergo mandatory thermal screening, clinical evaluation, and detailed travel history checks. The directive specifies that individuals arriving from regions considered high-risk must provide a 21-day travel history and obtain clearance from Border Health Services before entering the country. The ministry stressed that the measures apply to all passengers, crew members, and support staff, without exception.
Health authorities have also outlined protocols for handling suspected cases. Individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, headaches, respiratory distress, or neurological signs including confusion or drowsiness will be immediately isolated and transferred to designated hospitals for further evaluation. The government has emphasized strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures, including the use of personal protective equipment and environmental sanitation at all ports of entry.
Pakistan’s proactive steps align with similar measures recently implemented by other Asian countries, including Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, amid growing regional vigilance. These measures were triggered after Indian health authorities reported two confirmed Nipah cases in West Bengal in late December 2025. Officials in India traced nearly 200 contacts linked to the cases, with none testing positive so far.
The Nipah virus, classified as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization, is a zoonotic virus primarily transmitted from fruit bats to humans. While human-to-human transmission is rare and requires close contact, infections can lead to severe fever, encephalitis, and a high mortality rate. Currently, no approved vaccine or specific treatment exists, though several candidates are in development with international support.
Public health experts note that although the immediate risk of a large-scale outbreak in Pakistan remains low, early detection, rigorous screening, and international cooperation are vital to preventing wider spread. Authorities have urged citizens and travellers to remain vigilant and follow official guidance to minimize the risk of infection.
This step by Pakistan underscores the increasing importance of coordinated regional measures to combat emerging infectious diseases and reflects the country’s commitment to protecting public health in the face of global viral threats.