The public is being urged not to panic over the Nipah virus outbreak that is currently affecting India. Deputy Health Minister Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni reassured that Sri Lanka is not facing any immediate danger. He mentioned that the health authorities in Sri Lanka are actively monitoring the situation and are equipped with all necessary testing kits in case any suspicious cases arise. The Nipah virus, which can be passed from animals like bats and pigs, has been detected in several Asian nations, leading to increased airport screenings in Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. This virus has a death rate of between 40% and 75%. While it can spread from person to person, such occurrences are very rare, according to Dr. Wijemuni. He stated, “Sri Lanka has never had a Nipah outbreak before. There is no need for unnecessary fear.” The Deputy Health Minister also explained that anyone showing serious symptoms would likely not be fit to travel, which minimizes the risk of the Nipah virus entering Sri Lanka. He emphasized, “There have been no cases reported here. People should not panic or waste time worrying about this virus.” Regarding the screening of travelers arriving in Sri Lanka, Dr. Wijemuni told Ada Derana that such actions are only needed if a disease is spreading actively or if there is a significant risk of person-to-person transmission. Since the risk from infected travelers is very low, no extra screening is needed at this time, the Deputy Health Minister concluded.
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