Post by : Meena
Hassan
In response to the Nipah virus outbreak in India, Thailand is ramping up its health monitoring and screening protocols. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that health measures similar to those used during the Covid-19 pandemic will be implemented to thwart the virus's entry into the country.
Currently, Thailand has not recorded any Nipah virus cases; however, health officials remain vigilant. The Ministry of Public Health is dedicated to providing accurate information to prevent public alarm.
Transmission of the Nipah virus primarily occurs through direct bodily fluids rather than through the air. It can be transmitted from animals to humans or via contaminated food and direct contact. To reduce risk, authorities recommend maintaining high personal hygiene standards, such as consuming hot meals, using serving utensils, and frequent handwashing.
Additionally, the Prime Minister suggested minimizing close physical interactions and encouraging non-contact greetings to prevent transmission.
From January 26, Thailand commenced health screenings for air travelers from India, particularly those arriving from West Bengal, at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Passengers from these high-risk areas will receive “Health Beware Cards,” which detail the symptoms to monitor, including fever, headaches, muscle pain, sore throat, cough, difficulty breathing, confusion, or seizures.
Travelers experiencing symptoms or those who have been in contact with bats, sick animals, or infected individuals in the 21 days prior to arrival in Thailand are strongly encouraged to seek medical attention immediately and inform health officials regarding their travel history.
The World Health Organization ranks the Nipah virus as a high-risk pathogen due to its epidemic potential. Infections can vary from mild to severe, sometimes resulting in life-threatening respiratory complications and encephalitis, with fatality rates fluctuating between 40% and 75%, depending on available healthcare resources and outbreak conditions.
To safeguard public health, Thailand is diligently enforcing rigorous health surveillance on travelers arriving from nations with Nipah virus cases.
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