The world is on alert again due to a deadly virus

Global airports step up checks on Nipah virus after first fatality in India

Global airports have started to strengthen sanitary control of passengers amid reports of a dangerous virus Nipah, after the first fatal case of the disease was recorded in India. The situation is increasingly being compared to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Enhanced checks at airports

In particular, airports in Thailand introduced additional checks of passengers arriving from India. It is about medical screening and control of possible symptoms of the new virus.

The situation in India

According to local media reports, in India:

• fixed the first fatal case of Nipah virus infection;

• young woman fell into a coma as a result of the disease and died;

• Hundreds of contact persons were quarantined to prevent the spread of infection.

WHO assessment

У World Health Organisation said that the Nipah virus is seen as a high-risk pathogen. It is regularly included in the list of pathogens that require priority global monitoring.

What is known about the Nipah virus

According to the WHO:

• virus transmitted by airborne droplets, and through close contact;

• There is no vaccine against it;

• The mortality rate during outbreaks can be as high as up to 75%.

Context.

The Nipah virus was first identified in the late 1990s and has been causing localised outbreaks in South and Southeast Asia from time to time. Following the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, international health authorities and governments are acting to to be ahead of the curve, by taking preventive measures even at the early stages of the threat.