According to Hemraj Joshi, Vector Control Inspector at the Sudurpaschim Health Directorate, monitoring has been intensified at five major entry points in Sudurpaschim Province.
Health desks are actively screening travelers entering Nepal through Gauriphanta and Khakraula in Kailali, Khalanga in Darchula, Jhulaghat in Baitadi, and Gaddachauki in Kanchanpur.
“All health desks at the border points have been put on high alert,” Joshi said, adding that health workers have been oriented on Nipah virus detection and response.
He also noted that isolation wards established during the COVID-19 pandemic have been kept on standby as a precaution.
Health officials say the risk of Nipah transmission is currently higher at eastern border points, as infections have been confirmed in India’s West Bengal. However, vigilance has been increased nationwide to prevent any possible spread.
Dipendra Singh Rawal, Chief of the District Health Office, said health desks are closely monitoring travelers showing symptoms such as fever or other suspected signs of infection. “If a person is suspected of infection, samples are collected and sent to the Provincial Public Health Laboratory for testing,” he said.
Rawal also confirmed that treatment arrangements have been strengthened at Mahakali Provincial Hospital in Mahendranagar.
He emphasized that preventive measures are being focused on key transmission routes, as the Nipah virus can spread through bats, pigs, and infected individuals.
Health authorities have urged travelers and border communities to remain alert and cooperate with screening procedures to reduce the risk of the virus entering Nepal.
