JAKARTA: (Bernama) Indonesia has stepped up checks at all entry points by introducing health screenings to curb the spread of the Nipah virus.
Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said health officers will conduct screenings at airports, seaports and land border checkpoints using special reagents or screening kits on all individuals entering the country who show symptoms.
"The move is a precautionary measure, although no Nipah virus cases have been reported in Indonesia so far,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 5).
Budi said his ministry has issued a circular to all relevant agencies nationwide, urging heightened vigilance, especially for the early detection of travellers from areas with reported Nipah virus cases who have prolonged fever and cough.
He also urged individuals experiencing symptoms after returning from high-risk areas to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility to prevent further spread. - Bernama
