Deadly Nipah Virus Causes Covid-Level Fears

Health authorities across parts of Asia have stepped up airport health screenings following renewed concerns over the deadly Nipah virus, raising memories of the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The alert comes after confirmed cases of Nipah virus were reported in India, prompting neighbouring countries to introduce enhanced passenger screening measures, particularly for travellers arriving from affected regions.

Several Asian countries have reportedly begun temperature checks, health declarations, and symptom monitoring at airports, with officials describing the measures as precautionary but necessary given the virus’s high fatality rate.

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, most commonly through fruit bats, and in some cases through close human-to-human contact. Symptoms include fever, headaches, breathing difficulties and, in severe cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis).

Health experts warn that Nipah is particularly dangerous because there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment, and past outbreaks have recorded fatality rates ranging from 40 to 75 per cent.

Authorities have stressed that there is no widespread outbreak at this stage, and no cases have been confirmed outside India. However, the reintroduction of Covid-style airport measures highlights growing concern about the virus’s potential to spread if not quickly contained.

Travellers are being advised to monitor their health, seek medical attention if symptoms develop, and follow official public health guidance as the situation continues to be closely monitored.