How Soekarno-Hatta Airport Is Tackling Nipah Virus Awareness

February 8, 2026 | 10:02 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has tightened health control for passengers following the outbreak of the Nipah virus in several countries. Naning Nugrahini, Head of the Health Quarantine Main Office at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, stated that the increased surveillance focuses on incoming passengers from affected and high-risk countries.

"This includes monitoring of signs and symptoms using a thermo scanner and visual observation," said Naning when contacted by Tempo on Friday, February 6, 2026.

A thermo scanner is a body temperature scanning device installed at the international arrival terminal of Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Naning mentioned that health declarations are required for all international travelers to monitor signs and symptoms using a thermal scanner and visual observation.

"Therefore, we urge airlines to ensure that the filling of the all Indonesia form is done completely and in accordance with the conditions in the country of origin," said Naning.

Additionally, the Health Quarantine Main Office deploys medical personnel for further examinations, prepares ambulances specially equipped for infectious diseases, and arranges referrals to infectious disease hospitals in the event of suspected or probable cases.

Another precautionary measure to anticipate the entry of the Nipah virus into Indonesia through air travel, the Health Quarantine Main Office has sent a notice to all agencies at Soekarno-Hatta Airport regarding the Nipah virus, its symptoms, prevention, and the protection of personnel providing direct services.

"We are conducting socialization about the current situation, the infectious Nipah virus, prevention, and mitigation, involving all airport agencies and the surrounding community," said Naning.

About the Nipah virus

Although there have been no reported cases in humans in Indonesia, the Nipah virus has been found in the fruit bat population. There have been more than 800 cases worldwide, with a death rate reaching 40-70 percent since the virus was discovered. According to Dominicus Husada, a member of the Infectious Disease Tropical Unit of the IDAI, the virus was first identified in 1998 around the Nipah River in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. The virus originates from fruit bats and can be transmitted to humans through intermediate animals such as pigs, as well as through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected animals or humans.

The initial symptoms of the infection generally include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. Some patients may experience respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or pneumonia. In severe cases, the virus can attack the brain. Therefore, at-risk groups such as farmers, toddy tappers, and healthcare workers are advised to increase their vigilance.

Preventive measures

For travelers going to or coming from areas where Nipah virus cases have been detected, there are several infection prevention guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the UK National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and authorities in several Asian countries.

Before traveling, travelers are advised to check and follow the health authority guidelines regarding safety, security, and any travel or health restrictions at their destination, as reported by Vn Express. Travelers should also review outbreak updates, advice on disease prevention, recommended vaccinations, and information about airports implementing quarantine or surveillance procedures.

While abroad, it is important to take preventive measures, such as maintaining good personal hygiene by frequently washing your hands with soap and clean water and wearing a mask when necessary. Do not live or nest near bats, and avoid touching objects or surfaces that may be contaminated by them. In addition, wash and peel fruits before consumption. Avoid fruit that has fallen to the ground or shows signs of having been eaten by animals.

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