TIL BDR GHALLEY | Thimphu
Bhutan is closely monitoring developments following the recent Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India, as the Ministry of Health implements comprehensive preparedness and response measures to prevent the virus from spreading into the country.
Karma Jamtsho, Director of the Department of Public Health (DoPH), Ministry of Health, during the meet the press session held on 6th Feb, stated that the outbreak in West Bengal was confirmed on 12 January s2026, with two reported cases.
One patient has recovered and been discharged, while the second remains under medical supervision. All 196 contacts linked to the cases have completed quarantine and tested negative, indicating that the outbreak has remained localized and contained.
He said that the ministry has been coordinating closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) to assess the risk of international spread.
Current evaluations indicate that the risk of importation into Bhutan remains low, reflecting both containment measures in West Bengal and Bhutan’s proactive health security protocols.
Since 1 February, Bhutan has activated a nationwide surveillance system to monitor and detect suspected Nipah virus cases.
Health facilities across the country have been placed on high alert, particularly those in border regions where the risk of cross-border transmission is higher.
Surveillance activities include monitoring for Nipah-like symptoms, contact tracing, and prompt reporting of suspected cases.
The Royal Centre for Disease Control (RCDC) has conducted three rounds of risk assessments since the outbreak. The most recent assessment on 2 February 2026 confirmed that the overall risk of importation into Bhutan remains low.
These assessments inform preparedness strategies, including allocation of resources, training of personnel, and dissemination of public health advisories.
The Ministry has instituted stringent screening protocols for high-risk travellers at international airports and ground crossings.
Measures include mandatory health declarations, thermal scanning, and visual checks. Inflight health announcements are also made for passengers arriving from high-risk areas to facilitate early detection and reporting of symptoms.
Public health advisories have been widely circulated to inform citizens about Nipah virus risks and recommended preventive actions.
Media campaigns, community outreach, and direct communication with local authorities reinforce these messages.
Karma Jamtsho emphasized that the public should adhere to preventive measures, including thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables, avoiding consumption of raw fruits potentially contaminated by bats or other animals, and limiting contact with sick animals in high-risk areas.
Additional guidance includes frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with individuals exhibiting Nipah-like symptoms, wearing masks and maintaining respiratory hygiene in crowded areas.
The Ministry has launched sensitization and advocacy programs for health workers and relevant stakeholders to ensure timely detection and reporting of suspected cases.
These programs aim to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools needed to identify potential cases, implement infection control measures, and coordinate with the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) and Health Emergency Operations Center.
The Department of Public Health, RCDC, TAG, and Health Emergency Operations Center are actively monitoring the situation and coordinating responses.
Health personnel at points of entry have been instructed to maintain vigilance and report any suspected cases immediately.
Preparedness measures include stockpiling medical supplies, training response teams, and ensuring that isolation and treatment facilities are ready to manage confirmed cases.
The MoH reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and implementing all necessary measures to prevent the entry and spread of Nipah virus.
Citizens are urged to rely on verified information from credible sources such as the Ministry of Health and WHO and avoid circulating unverified reports that could cause unnecessary concern.
As the situation develops, the Ministry will continue to adjust its preparedness and response strategies based on ongoing assessments and emerging risks.
He highlighted that the combination of proactive border screening, vigilant surveillance, health worker training, and public awareness campaigns is essential in maintaining Bhutan’s low-risk status.
While Nipah virus remains a health concern in affected regions, Bhutan’s multi-layered preparedness approach focuses on early detection, containment, and public education.
By integrating surveillance, entry screening, health communication, and coordinated response, the MoH aims to minimize the risk of importation and ensure that the country is prepared to respond effectively should a case be detected.
