Nepal Tightens Border Health Controls After Nipah Cases Nearby

Nepal has escalated its public health vigilance as the spread of the Nipah virus in neighbouring India raises concerns about cross-border transmission. The government says precautionary systems are now active to detect and stop any possible entry of the infection into the country.

According to the Ministry of Health and Population, health surveillance has been strengthened at Tribhuvan International Airport and along land borders with India. Ministry spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki confirmed that screening protocols are being applied to travellers entering Nepal, with particular focus on crossings in Koshi Province, which shares close movement links with eastern India.

Health officials have also instructed authorities at other border points to carry out checks on incoming travellers. The aim, the ministry says, is early identification of symptoms and rapid response before any potential spread within Nepal.

Dr Budhathoki cautioned that Nipah virus infections can be severe if medical care is delayed. Citing existing data, he noted that the fatality rate among infected patients has been recorded at around 30 to 33 percent, underlining the seriousness of the threat.

The virus is known to transmit from animals such as bats and pigs to humans, and can also spread through close human contact. While no cases have been reported inside Nepal so far, officials stress that heightened alertness is essential given the open border and regular travel between the two countries.

Authorities say the current measures will remain in place as regional monitoring continues, with further decisions guided by developments across the border and ongoing health assessments.