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Enhanced disease control measures have been rolled out at major international airports, such as increasing the frequency of cleaning and disinfection of common areas and maintaining close coordination with the International Communicable Disease Control Checkpoint to ensure safety among passengers and airport personnel.
Thailand has strengthened health screening measures at its international airports for passengers arriving from West Bengal, India, following reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in the region.
From 25 January 2026, international disease control checkpoints at Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport began implementing targeted health screening for incoming passengers from the affected area.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus transmitted from animals — especially fruit bats — to humans and can spread between people through close contact or bodily fluids. It is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a high-risk pathogen with no specific cure or widely available vaccine and a historically high fatality rate in past outbreaks. Symptoms range from fever and respiratory distress to neurological complications, including encephalitis.
As cited by The Week, guidelines issued by the West Bengal government state that all suspected Nipah cases are required to be immediately isolated and treated at designated healthcare facilities. The response framework mirrors infection control protocols adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a strong emphasis on early isolation, controlled treatment environments, and strict prevention measures.
Currently, close to 100 people have been asked to quarantine in their homes after the first Nipah virus case came to light on Monday, stated Business Standard, as five confirmed infections have been identified. Among the infected are healthcare staff, including nurses and a doctor.
According to the Thai Government, the screening operations have proceeded smoothly, supported by close cooperation among the Airports of Thailand (AOT), immigration authorities, relevant agencies, and arriving travellers.
On the same day, Phuket International Airport also heightened its preparedness and disease surveillance measures in response to the ongoing health monitoring of West Bengal. Screening points have been proactively established for passengers arriving from West Bengal, reflecting a preventative approach aimed at minimising health risks while keeping travel operations running.
Phuket International Airport currently operates direct flights from West Bengal via one airline, with five flights per week. In response, the airport has strengthened public health protocols within passenger terminals, including increased cleaning and disinfection of common and high-touch areas.In response, the airport has strengthened public health protocols within passenger terminals, including increased cleaning and disinfection of common and high-touch areas.
Airport authorities have also maintained close coordination with the International Communicable Disease Control Checkpoint to ensure screening procedures are carried out effectively, with the aim of safeguarding passengers and airport personnel while maintaining confidence in air travel operations.
READ MORE: Border checks tightened as Thailand steps up efforts to curb illegal migrant labour
Lead image / PR Thai Government's Facebook
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