Thailand and Nepal have heightened border and airport health screenings after a cluster of Nipah virus infections was confirmed in the Indian state of West Bengal.

Five healthcare workers in the Kolkata region tested positive, prompting the isolation of around 100 individuals.

The virus, which can spread from fruit bats or pigs to humans, and occasionally between humans, is associated with severe brain inflammation and a mortality rate ranging from 40% to 75%, according to the World Health Organization.

In Thailand, travelers arriving from West Bengal are undergoing checks for fever and symptoms at major airports, including Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, and at Phuket International.

Health declaration cards are distributed, and enhanced cleaning protocols are in place.

Nepal has rolled out similar monitoring at the Tribhuvan International Airport and major land crossings, responding to the challenge of open borders and high daily traffic from India.

Authorities in India have issued public guidance urging residents to avoid consuming fallen fruit, raw date palm sap, or interacting with sick or dead animals.

Bat populations in Kolkata's Alipore Zoo are being tested to trace potential viral reservoirs.

There is no known vaccine or antiviral treatment for Nipah, and containment hinges on early detection, isolation, and contact tracing.

The World Health Organization has designated Nipah virus as a pathogen with pandemic potential, citing its high fatality rate and capacity for human-to-human transmission.

While experts note that past outbreaks were typically localized and short-lived, the virus remains a top concern for global health systems, particularly in South and Southeast Asia.