Influenza-related stocks surged in afternoon trading on January 26. At the time of writing, Maike Bio, Hygeia Biotechnology, ZJ Bio, and Hualan Vaccine all hit the 20% daily limit-up. Da'an Gene, Teyi Pharmaceutical, Lukang Pharmaceutical, and Kehua Bio also rose by the 10% daily limit. Meanwhile, Zhifei Biological, Wondfo Biotech, CanSino Biologics, and Walvax Biotechnology saw gains exceeding 10%.
According to reports, a Nipah virus infection has recently emerged in West Bengal, eastern India, with five confirmed cases to date, including medical workers.
Approximately 100 individuals have been instructed to undergo home quarantine. Infected patients are currently receiving treatment at hospitals in Kolkata, the state capital, and surrounding areas, with one patient reported to be in critical condition.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand announced that comprehensive screening measures for flights originating from West Bengal, India, will be implemented starting January 26 to prevent the importation of the Nipah virus.
In a statement issued on January 25, the Thai Civil Aviation Authority clarified that the screening measures take effect from 00:00 on January 26 and will be adjusted as the situation evolves. Current screening protocols include preliminary checks by airlines at departure points in West Bengal; passengers showing symptoms requiring testing must provide relevant documentation before departure and adhere to public health guidelines during flight. Upon arrival in Thailand, all travelers from the region must undergo temperature checks and complete health declaration forms, with screening points established at the jet bridge areas of arrival airports.
Direct flights operate from Kolkata, West Bengal, to three airports in Thailand: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket. The screening measures have already been initiated at these three airports.
In a January 25 interview, Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stated that no Nipah virus infections have been reported in Thailand thus far. The government has prepared the public health system for monitoring and screening, and will closely monitor travelers from high-risk countries and regions. He also urged the public to comply with health guidelines and maintain good hygiene practices, such as consuming hot food, frequent handwashing, using personal utensils, and avoiding handshakes whenever possible.
According to information from the World Health Organization and other agencies, the Nipah virus can attack the lungs and brain, with symptoms including fever, headache, drowsiness, confusion, and coma. The fatality rate among infected individuals can exceed 40%. The incubation period from infection to symptom onset typically ranges from 4 to 14 days, but can extend up to 45 days. Currently, there are no specific vaccines or effective treatments available for the Nipah virus.
