The Department of Health (DOH) has assured that the Philippines is prepared to conduct testing and surveillance for the Nipah virus.
Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo gave the assurance following reported outbreaks in Bangladesh and India.
In an interview, Domingo said the virus is not new, noting that cases were previously recorded in 2014 in Sultan Kudarat, where 17 cases were reported.
The DOH explained that symptoms of the Nipah virus are similar to those of the flu, but in some cases, patients may develop encephalitis and meningitis.
The virus can reportedly be contracted through the consumption of horse meat and through contact with an infected person.
While bats are known to be the primary source of the virus, other animals such as pigs and horses may also become infected.
Domingo said the Nipah virus can be prevented by avoiding contact with bats and sick animals.
He also advised the public to consume meat approved by the National Meat Inspection Service and to ensure that food is properly cooked before eating.
Meanwhile, some airports in Asia have tightened their security measures in response to the Nipah virus.
