COLOMBO, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's health authorities have intensified precautionary measures in response to reports of Nipah virus cases in India and Bangladesh, according to Cabinet spokesperson and Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa.
Addressing the issue at the weekly Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, the minister said the health ministry has activated preventive protocols at airports and other entry points, citing the steady increase in tourist arrivals to the country. He noted that monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened to reduce the risk of potential transmission through inbound travel.
The minister said the health sector has been closely tracking developments related to the virus following confirmed cases and fatalities reported in India, adding that the authorities are prepared to respond promptly if necessary, particularly in light of the anticipated arrival of foreign visitors for major international sporting events scheduled to take place in Colombo.
Tourism figures were also cited as a factor behind the heightened alert. More than 40,000 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka over the past four days, while total arrivals in January reached 277,000, marking the highest number recorded for that month. The surge has prompted the Ministry of Health to remain on high alert and maintain preventive measures at all points of entry. ■
