Bangkok: The Department of National Parks has taken decisive action to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus in caves and natural tourist attractions.

According to Thai News Agency, the department has responded to reports of the Nipah virus outbreak in other countries, such as India, Malaysia, and Bangladesh, where the disease poses a significant threat due to its high mortality rate.

In Thailand, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, in collaboration with institutions like Chulalongkorn Hospital and Kasetsart University, has been actively monitoring and researching the Nipah virus in bats since 2002. The virus, found in approximately 10-16% of Thai bats, is not harmful to humans if the bats are neither hunted nor consumed. The Department of Disease Control and the Department of Livestock Development have confirmed no human or pig infections in Thailand, and they continue to closely monitor the situation.

The infection rate in Thai bats is considerably lower than in countries with previous human outbreaks, such as Malaysia, India, and Bangladesh, where rates in bat colonies can reach 40%. In Thailand, infectious diseases in bats are typically observed during April and May.

To ensure the safety of tourists visiting areas with bats, the Department of National Parks has implemented several preventive measures. Tourists are required to wear personal protective equipment, including face masks, protective glasses, long-sleeved clothing, and gloves. They are also advised against hunting, gathering, or consuming wild animals. Immediate washing with soap and water is recommended if contact with bat fluids occurs. Tourists experiencing symptoms like high fever or severe headache after visiting high-risk areas should seek medical attention promptly.

Moreover, affiliated agencies are instructed to enhance tourist screening, install informative signage, and monitor bat habitats closely. These measures aim to ensure public safety and allow for safe coexistence with nature. The department advises the public to follow official announcements for the latest information.