The Nipah virus in Asia: what travellers need to know

If the recent headlines about the Nipah virus have you feeling a little antsy, you’re not alone. Following an outbreak in West Bengal, India, health authorities across Southeast Asia are watching the situation closely. To help separate the facts from the frenzy, we’ve put together a guide on what the virus actually is and why officials are on alert.

Where is the current outbreak?

Currently, there are no reported cases outside West Bengal in India. There are also no reports of cases outside rural areas of the state. About 200 people who were in contact with those cases have been traced and tested negative for the virus, according to India’s health ministry.

Are there travel restrictions or airport screenings?

There are currently no travel restrictions. Thailand is screening passengers at airports serving flights from West Bengal (Subernabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket), and Nepal is screening arrivals at Kathmandu airport and at land border points with India. Vietnam has also tightened health screening at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, as has Malaysia at all airports serving international visitors.

How is the virus transmitted?

Nipah is a zoonotic virus that can spread from animals to humans through direct contact with the animal or its fluids, and directly between humans or through contaminated food. 

What are the symptoms and the timeline?

People who contract the virus may show a wide range of symptoms, or none at all. The incubation period ranges from four to 14 days. Initial symptoms can include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. More severe cases can lead to drowsiness, altered consciousness, and pneumonia. Very severe cases can result in encephalitis, a sometimes-fatal condition that causes inflammation of the brain. 

There is a high fatality rate of 40 to 75 percent, as there is currently no vaccine or medical treatment for the virus. If you show signs of a brain infection (confusion or a severe headache) or a severe respiratory infection (difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately. 

How can I stay safe while travelling?

If you’re travelling to affected areas, avoid direct contact with animals and food or drinks that could have been contaminated by bats, like raw date palm sap and fruit found on the ground, especially if it’s partially eaten. Only consume fully cooked food and fruits that can be washed and peeled. Practise good hand hygiene.

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