The Department of Health states there are no active Nipah virus cases in the Philippines and no international advisories for travel restrictions. A Facebook post claiming possible lockdowns is false, according to the agency. The DOH recommends heightened awareness rather than restrictions.
DOH Clarifies Rumors on Nipah Virus Lockdown
A Facebook post from the page 'Serbisyong Totoo: May Malasakit,' with over 427,000 followers, circulated on February 1, 2026, claiming authorities were considering lockdowns or strict movement restrictions against the Nipah virus. It garnered over 2,400 reactions, 1,200 comments, and 1,300 shares. However, the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed on February 4, 2026, that there are no active Nipah virus cases in the country.
"There are no international recommendations for travel restrictions," said DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo, according to a GMA News report. The DOH emphasized that border surveillance and screening protocols are in place to prevent the virus's entry. Frontliners at airports and seaports are also prepared.
Domingo added: "The DOH Bureau of Quarantine remains vigilant and recommends increased awareness instead of restricting traveler movement. By focusing on public education and ensuring airport and seaport frontliners' readiness, the DOH BOQ, in coordination with other health partners, can help prevent the entry and spread of any potential disease threats."
This rumor followed reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India, starting in December 2025, which Indian authorities said they contained. The World Health Organization describes the Nipah virus as zoonotic, transmitted from animals to humans, contaminated food, or direct contact. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat, with a case fatality rate of 40% to 75%.
This echoes previous false claims debunked by Rappler, such as no class suspensions due to Nipah or a 'super flu.' The DOH urges the public to stay alert but not panic.
