PETALING JAYA: Vigilance over health screenings at border entry points in Malaysia has been upped with the outbreak of the Nipah virus in India. First discovered in Kampung Sungai Nipah, Negri Sembilan, in 1998, the Nipah virus (Henipavirus nipahense) is a bat-borne virus that can cause infections in both humans and other animals, with high mortality rates (starting from 40%). In a statement yesterday, the Health Ministry (MOH) has given its assurance that border health control measures are constantly kept, following the Indian cases. “Any public health measures will be decided based on confirmed information and careful risk assessment, in line with national policies,” it said. The MOH also emphasised that public health preparedness at points of entry, including international airports, seaports and land border crossings, remains in accordance with established protocols.

Source: The Star January 28, 2026 05:02 UTC