Tangerang. Authorities at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta) in Tangerang, Banten, have intensified health monitoring for international travelers amid growing global concerns over the Nipah virus.

The Nipah virus is a deadly zoonotic virus carried by fruit bats that can infect humans and animals, causing severe respiratory and neurological complications with a high fatality rate. BBC reported that five healthcare workers in West Bengal were infected early this month, with one in critical condition, and about 110 individuals who had contact with them have been quarantined.

Naning Nugrahini, head of the airport’s Health Quarantine Center (BBKK), said the airport uses a digital health declaration system requiring travelers to report their health status before entering Indonesia. “Travelers must complete a health declaration prior to arrival, allowing us to assess their condition,” she told state news agency Antara on Tuesday.

Screening measures are adjusted dynamically according to evolving conditions. Current protocols include mandatory pre-flight health checks by airlines and verification of travelers’ health status. Officials also review passengers’ travel history over the past 21 days to identify potential exposure.

“For flights from affected countries, such as India, we maintain a profile of direct flights to Jakarta. This helps us identify passengers with symptoms, and if necessary, health officers board the plane for further checks,” Naning explained.

The airport has established dedicated checkpoints throughout the terminals, equipped with thermal scanners and staffed by medical personnel conducting visual inspections. Travelers displaying symptoms consistent with Nipah are required to follow health protocols immediately.

Although no Nipah cases have been detected in Indonesia to date, airport authorities remain vigilant. Naning also confirmed coordination with animal quarantine agencies to prevent transmission from animals such as bats, monkeys, and pigs.

The public is urged to maintain hygiene and healthy practices. “Wash or peel fruit before eating and maintain balanced health habits,” she advised.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that Nipah virus can attack the lungs and brain, with symptoms including fever, headache, drowsiness, confusion, and coma. Mortality rates among infected patients can exceed 40 percent.

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