Following reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in India, Pakistan has intensified screening and surveillance measures across the country. The Ministry of Health says no case has been reported so far, while hospitals and diagnostic facilities remain fully prepared.
After the spread of the Nipah virus in India, screening has been initiated across Pakistan as a precautionary step. Health officials confirmed that screening is being carried out at airports, seaports and land routes to detect any potential cases early.
Authorities stressed that strict monitoring has also begun at maritime borders and along land crossings to prevent the virus from entering the country.
No Nipah case reported so far
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that not a single Nipah virus patient has been reported in Pakistan to date. Officials reassured the public that the situation is under control and preventive measures are in place.
Hospitals across the country have been placed on alert, with diagnostic kits already available to carry out testing if required.
Also Read: Nipah virus outbreak in India: WHO warns low global threat
The National Institute of Health has issued a formal alert in light of the regional situation. According to Federal Health Secretary Hamid Yaqoob, preparations in hospitals are complete and strict surveillance has been launched nationwide.
He said testing capacity has been ensured and monitoring has been strengthened at all entry and exit points.
How Nipah virus spreads
Health experts explain that the Nipah virus primarily spreads from fruit-eating bats to humans. According to Dr. Mumtaz, people can become infected by eating fruit contaminated by bats.
Fruit bats often feed on fruits and discard partially eaten ones, which may carry the virus if consumed by humans.
Also Read: Sindh issues Nipah virus advisory as India reports cases
Experts have advised people not to touch or eat fallen or partially eaten fruits, especially those that appear grey or damaged. Fruit bats commonly sit on date palm trees, which are found in parts of Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Although Islamabad and its surrounding areas do not have date palm trees, fruit bats are present in the Margalla Hills, prompting caution.
Symptoms of Nipah virus
According to health officials, symptoms of the Nipah virus include high fever, difficulty breathing and inflammation of the brain. Authorities urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms appear, particularly after contact with potentially contaminated fruit.
Also Read: Pakistan issues alert over Nipah virus spread in India
Officials emphasized that early detection and reporting are key to preventing any potential spread.
