The federal government of Pakistan has issued a nationwide health alert amid concerns over the potential spread of the deadly Nipah virus, directing all relevant authorities to implement strict preventive measures at the country’s entry points. The Border Health Services (BHS) has issued an advisory warning that the Nipah virus is a highly dangerous zoonotic disease capable of spreading from animals to humans, as well as between people, with a high fatality rate that makes early detection and containment crucial.
Enhanced screening and surveillance measures have been ordered at airports, seaports, and land crossings across Pakistan. All incoming passengers, including transit travelers, will undergo thermal screening and medical checks for symptoms of the virus, and crews of international flights, ships, and buses will also be screened before entry. Authorities have been instructed to verify the travel history of all passengers over the past 21 days, with special attention to travelers from countries affected by the Nipah virus. False travel declarations will be formally recorded.
Incoming aircraft, ships, and buses will be disinfected using germicidal sprays, and any suspected Nipah cases will be immediately isolated and denied onward travel. Dedicated hospitals and isolation centers will be established for suspected and confirmed patients. Symptoms to watch for include fever, headache, breathing difficulties, and drowsiness. Officials have been warned that any lapse in screening or surveillance will be treated as serious negligence. Daily records of suspected and confirmed cases at entry points will be maintained and reported to the National Command and Operation Centre.
The advisory also highlighted recent warnings from the World Health Organization, noting suspected Nipah cases in India’s West Bengal. Authorities emphasized that strict screening, timely diagnosis, and continuous monitoring are essential to prevent the virus from entering Pakistan and spreading within the country.
