(Kuala Lumpur, 23rd) Although Nipah virus has not been detected in our country at present, the Veterinary Department will remain vigilant to prevent the virus from being imported from West Bengal, India.
“As the agency responsible for animal health and monitoring the prevention of zoonotic diseases, the Veterinary Department continues to carry out surveillance and closely cooperates with relevant agencies to ensure that our country remains free of Nipah virus.”
In a statement, the department said it would continue monitoring activities on domestic pigs and wild boars. “Last year, we conducted Nipah virus testing on more than 2,000 domestic pig samples and 48 wild boar samples, all of which tested negative. In addition, the Veterinary Department is also responsible for the control of imported pork from abroad.”
Fruit bats have been identified as the natural hosts of the Nipah virus, and the pig farming industry plays a key role in its transmission. If biosecurity measures are not effectively implemented, infections among pig herds will increase the risk of the virus spreading to humans and other animals.
The clinical symptoms of pigs infected with Nipah virus include: respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, rapid breathing, and nasal discharge; fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite; neurological symptoms, such as lack of coordination, tremors, and seizures. Infection rates in farms may be high, but the fatality rate may be low to moderate.
The Veterinary Department specifically urges pig farmers to remain vigilant, especially those near orchards or farms with fruit trees inside or around the premises, as these fruit trees attract bats to feed, thereby increasing the risk of Nipah virus infection.
“Pig farmers are advised to monitor the presence of bats in the farm area; reduce or eliminate factors that attract bats, including fruit trees; ensure that farm biosecurity measures meet high standards; and immediately report to veterinary services if any suspicious symptoms are found in livestock.”
The Veterinary Department urges, especially caretakers, to closely monitor the latest developments in animal diseases and promptly report any clinical symptoms to the nearest Veterinary Department office or via the hotline 03-8870 2041.