Chicago – January 27, 2026
A recent outbreak of the highly dangerous Nipah virus in India’s West Bengal state has raised alarm across parts of Asia, prompting several countries to introduce stricter health screening measures at airports and border crossings.
Health authorities in Thailand have begun screening passengers arriving at three major airports that receive flights from West Bengal. The move is aimed at early detection and prevention as concerns grow over the potential regional spread of the virus. Nepal has also implemented screening procedures for travelers entering through Kathmandu’s international airport, as well as at multiple land border checkpoints shared with India.
Officials confirmed that five healthcare workers in West Bengal were infected earlier this month while treating patients. One of those infected remains in critical condition. As a precautionary measure, approximately 110 individuals who came into close contact with the affected workers have been placed under quarantine and are being closely monitored for symptoms.
