The Sri Lanka government has assured the public that strict health surveillance is being maintained at all entry points following reports of Nipah virus infections and deaths in neighboring India and Bangladesh.
Addressing a media briefing, Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said the Ministry of Health Sri Lanka took immediate action after cases emerged in India and fatalities were reported in Bangladesh.
Responding to questions on quarantine and screening measures at airports, the Minister said authorities are closely monitoring all incoming passengers, particularly in view of the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which has drawn large numbers of foreign visitors.
“Even before the recent death in Bangladesh was reported, we had already initiated the necessary monitoring activities at the airport for all arriving tourists,” Jayatissa said.
He acknowledged the high mortality rate associated with the Nipah virus, noting that it presents a different challenge compared to COVID-19. However, he stressed that the health sector remains fully alert and prepared to implement all required precautionary measures.
The Minister highlighted the urgency of these steps amid a surge in tourism, revealing that more than 40,000 tourists arrived in Sri Lanka during the first four days of this month alone. He also noted that January 2026 recorded the highest-ever tourist arrivals for that month, reaching 277,000.
“We are extremely vigilant with the increase in tourist arrivals. The Ministry of Health is fully prepared to take the necessary measures,” he added.
