The federal government has issued a nationwide health alert due to concerns over the possible spread of the Nipah virus into Pakistan. Authorities have instructed all relevant agencies to enforce strict preventive measures at entry points.
Border Health Services warned that the Nipah virus is a dangerous zoonotic disease. The virus can spread from animals to humans. It can also pass between people. Officials said the virus has a high fatality rate, which makes early detection critical.
The government has ordered enhanced surveillance at airports, seaports, and land crossings. Health teams will screen all arriving passengers. Transit travellers will also undergo checks. Crews of international flights, ships, and buses will face screening before entry approval.
Authorities will verify the travel history of all incoming passengers for the past 21 days. Officials will closely monitor travellers arriving from affected countries. They will formally record any false travel declaration.
Pakistan has issued strict health screening measures at all entry points after two cases of the deadly Nipah virus were confirmed in India’s West Bengal.
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) January 28, 2026Officials have also directed teams to disinfect incoming aircraft, ships, and buses using approved germicidal sprays. Health staff will immediately isolate anyone showing suspected symptoms. Authorities will not allow suspected cases to continue onward travel.
The government has instructed health departments to designate specific hospitals and isolation facilities. These centres will manage suspected and confirmed cases.
Health officials listed common symptoms of the Nipah virus. These include fever, headache, shortness of breath, and drowsiness. Authorities warned that any lapse in screening would count as serious negligence.
Read: Pakistan’s NIH Issues Advisory on Nipah Virus Amidst South India’s Outbreak
Teams at entry points must maintain daily records of suspected and confirmed cases. They will share these reports with the National Command and Operation Centre for centralised monitoring.
The advisory also referenced alerts issued by the World Health Organisation. Recent suspected cases in West Bengal, India, have raised regional concern. Officials stressed that strict screening and continuous surveillance remain essential.
