Warning to Aussies in Bali over virus killing up to 75 per cent of people infected
Two out of the five infected people have already died from the Nipah virus.
Aussie travellers in Bali have been urged to be vigilant as concerns rise over the spread of the deadly Nipah virus.
The rare virus — which originated from fruit bats— has been detected in Kerala, India with five infected, two of whom have already died.
Although the virus has not been identified in Indonesia, the high number of Indian tourists who travel into Bali has health authorities concerned. Indians make up the second-largest group of foreigners visiting Bali behind Australians, authorities have announced a swift response in attempt to prevent the virus from breaching international borders.
“In accordance with the Ministry of Health’s directive, we must remain vigilant regarding the Nipah virus threat,” Head of the Bali Provincial Health Service, I Nyoman Gee Anom said.
What changes can Aussie travellers expect
Tourists will now have a mandatory temperature check upon arrival by an airport temperature detection device. Any who record a high temperature or have travelled through an area where the Nipah virus is currently present will be transported directly to hospital for assessment by a team of specialists.
"A team of neurologists, surgeons, and so on have been prepared because the virus can attack the brain," Mr Anom said.
There are currently no drugs or vaccine for the virus, with a fatality rate between 40 to 75 per cent, according to the World Health Organisation.
The virus can be transmitted directly from human-to-human via bodily fluids, close contact with an infected animal or contaminated food.
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Signs and symptoms to look out for
Infected people can develop symptoms including fever, headaches, vomiting, muscle pain and a sore threat, while others remain completely asymptomatic. In extreme cases, people can experience severe respiratory problems and seizures which can induce a coma.
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