PUTRAJAYA: Health surveillance and border controls have been stepped up amid renewed concerns over Nipah virus infections in India, according to the Health Ministry and border control agency. Cross-sector and inter-agency cooperation has also been reinforced to safeguard public health and prevent any re-emergence of Nipah disease, a Bernama report quoted the ministry. “To date, no Nipah virus has been detected in domestic or wild animals.”The ministry advised the ­public, particularly travellers to high-risk areas, to maintain good personal hygiene and avoid contact with sick animals or consuming contaminated products to prevent Nipah virus infection. Nipah disease is classified as a notifiable disease under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342). Nipah disease is a zoonotic infectious disease resulting from infection with the Nipah virus (NiV), with flying foxes/fruit bats as its natural reservoir.

Source: The Star January 29, 2026 01:15 UTC