Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of Tourism has expressed confidence that Thailand remains free of the Nipah virus, highlighting the stringent screening measures being enforced at all airports to reassure tourists.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Natthariya Thaweewong, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, announced that no cases of the Nipah virus have been detected in Thailand. She emphasized that the country has established strict preventive measures and screening protocols for international travelers. Discussions with the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, and the Immigration Bureau have led to guidelines for surveillance, screening, and quarantine measures in line with international standards at all airports and disease control checkpoints.
The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, reported that there have been no cases of Nipah virus infection in Thailand, nor is there any evidence of domestic transmission. Enhanced screening of passengers from high-risk areas includes epidemiological monitoring, temperature checks, travel history assessments, and symptom evaluation. Suspected cases are immediately isolated and referred to the public health system, adhering to International Public Health Guidelines (IHR).
The Department of Disease Control explained that the Nipah virus is a dangerous communicable disease that can spread from animals to humans, and potentially from human to human, necessitating vigilant monitoring. Thailand is equipped with laboratory facilities, disease investigation systems, and a nationwide surveillance network capable of quickly diagnosing and controlling the disease if any suspected cases arise.
Ms. Natthariya further mentioned that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is working closely with the Ministry of Public Health and border security agencies to enhance health and safety measures for tourists and the general public. The ministry is committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information to business operators and tourists.
'I can confirm that Thailand has strict measures in place to prevent and monitor the spread of infection from travelers from abroad, ensuring that there will be no Nipah virus transmission in Thailand. I also want to reassure tourists that traveling in Thailand remains highly safe, under a strong and internationally standardized public health system,' stated the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
Tourists and the public are urged to follow information from official sources, avoid spreading unconfirmed news, and seek medical attention if they experience any illness after traveling. They should also disclose their travel history to facilitate effective care and disease control.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reiterated its dedication to collaborating with relevant agencies to safeguard the health and safety of tourists, maintaining Thailand's reputation as a world-class tourist destination.