The government has ordered close monitoring of the Nipah virus situation following an increase in cases in India, with strict screening measures emphasized. It reaffirmed that no cases have been found in Thailand and urged the public not to panic.
On 24 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Airin Paithit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government has instructed relevant agencies to closely monitor the Nipah virus outbreak in India after confirmed cases increased. She emphasized enhanced surveillance and screening of travelers at international disease control checkpoints, confirming that no cases have been found in Thailand and urging the public to follow official information and remain calm.
Ms. Airin explained that reports from India show a total of five confirmed Nipah virus cases. Indian authorities have accelerated disease control measures, quarantined, and are tracking over 180 close contacts in West Bengal, while intensifying local surveillance. Thailand has implemented screening of incoming travelers; anyone with high fever or symptoms consistent with Nipah virus infection will undergo additional screening at international disease control checkpoints for immediate evaluation and management according to established protocols.
The Department of Medical Sciences, through the Institute of Public Health Science Research, the country's reference laboratory for diagnostics, is prepared to diagnose Nipah virus using Real-time RT-PCR, a highly sensitive and specific genetic test. It can analyze multiple specimen types such as blood, throat and nasal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine, collecting at least two specimen types. Results can be reported within 8 hours after sample receipt.
"Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus infection; care is supportive. We advise the public to protect themselves by avoiding contact with reservoir and carrier animals, thoroughly washing fruits before eating, and washing hands with soap after touching animals, meat, or carcasses—especially bats, pigs, horses, cats, goats, and sheep. Nipah virus is a severe zoonotic disease that can cause neurological symptoms and has a relatively high fatality rate. Although Thailand has not reported any human cases, close surveillance continues. It is classified as a dangerous communicable disease under the 2015 Communicable Disease Act, which mandates immediate reporting of suspected cases," Ms. Airin said.