ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been placed on high alert over the threat of the Nipah virus, though no confirmed case has been reported in the country so far.
In response to the spread of the virus in India, the Border Health Services (BHS) under the Federal Ministry of National Health Services has issued a formal warning and health advisory.
According to the health ministry, strict screening measures have been ordered at all airports, seaports, and land border crossings nationwide.
Authorities have made 100 percent screening mandatory for all incoming and transit passengers, along with thermal screening and clinical assessment.
Passengers have been directed to provide complete travel histories for the previous 21 days. Special monitoring has been ordered for travellers arriving from Nipah-affected or high-risk areas.
In case of suspicious symptoms, immediate isolation of the passenger has been made mandatory.
Officials further stated that no traveller will be allowed to enter Pakistan without formal health clearance.
The authorities confirmed that Pakistan has not reported any verified Nipah virus case to date. However, five cases have been confirmed in India’s West Bengal, prompting heightened vigilance.
Due to fears of cross-border transmission, countries including Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Nepal have also initiated enhanced screening procedures at their entry points.
