The Department of Animal Production and Health in Sri Lanka has initiated disease control activities to mitigate the potential spread of the Nipah virus through pigs.
Recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding both the animal production industry and public health from the Nipah virus, Mr. Mahinda Amaraweera, Director-General of the Health Department, has directed Dr. Hemali Kotala, Director-General of the Health Department, to ensure the best possible protection measures are in place.
During a recent press conference, Dr. Janaki Abeynayake, a virology expert at the Medical Research Institute, explained that the Nipah virus, which proliferates in certain bat species, poses a risk when bats infected with the virus come into contact with pigs.
Dr. Abeynayake stressed the importance of vigilance, particularly with pigs displaying symptoms of the virus.
It’s important to note that there is currently no reported risk of Nipah virus transmission in Sri Lanka. Dr. Abeynayake also emphasized that there is no need to create unnecessary fear, as the virus has not exhibited pandemic characteristics on a global scale.
