The Department of Health is prepared for the possible entry of the Nipah virus following outbreaks in India and Bangladesh. Surveillance continues at airports and seaports, with no new cases in the country since 2014. The public is advised to avoid close contact with bats and sick animals.
In a statement on Monday, the Department of Health (DOH) assured readiness for any arrival of the Nipah virus, amid concerns from cases in South Asia. “The DOH’s Bureau of Quarantine continues to be vigilant in all of the country’s airports and seaports, 24 hours,” the DOH said.
The virus is not new to the Philippines; 17 cases were detected in Sultan Kudarat in 2014, but none have been seen since. Monitoring persists through the Epidemiology Bureau. Outbreaks are seasonal in Bangladesh and India, with five confirmed cases in West Bengal, India, and around 100 close contacts under watch.
According to the World Health Organization, the Nipah virus transmits from animals to humans, mainly via fruit bats through contaminated food, or directly between people. Symptoms start flu-like but can lead to brain swelling, encephalitis, and meningitis, acquired through eating horsemeat or contact with infected individuals.
“Make sure to consume meat that is well cooked and approved by the National Meat Inspection Service,” the DOH advised. They also urged avoiding proximity to bats or sick animals to prevent risks.
