Animal Arriving from India Curbed Amid Nipah Concerns

RRI.CO.ID, Tangerang - The Banten Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Office has tightened controls on animals arriving from India through Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, as part of efforts to prevent the Nipah virus from entering Indonesia.

“For countries currently experiencing outbreaks, such as India, we have prohibited the entry of certain animals into Indonesia, specifically bats and pigs,” Head of the Banten Quarantine Office, Duma Sari Margaretha Harianja, said on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Beyond animals, Duma explained that vigilance has also been increased for plants originating from countries affected by the Nipah virus, particularly India. 

“We are implementing biosecurity measures and requiring the use of protective equipment during all quarantine procedures to minimize the risk of transmission to officers,” she added.

To strengthen monitoring, Duma said her office is focusing strategies on international arrival points at Soekarno-Hatta. 

“We already have the necessary equipment and are working closely with the Human Health Quarantine Office. Our focus is on animals, even though the virus is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from humans to animals and vice versa,” she noted.

Duma further explained that precautionary measures are also being integrated into the All Indonesia application. Passengers are required to declare their belongings before arriving in Indonesia, enabling authorities to identify individuals carrying animals that may show symptoms of disease.

Meanwhile, the Soekarno-Hatta Health Quarantine Center (BBKK) has also stepped up surveillance of international passengers to anticipate possible Nipah virus transmission.

“Regardless of whether the virus is present or not, we already have the Olimnesia system, which includes a health declaration. Travelers are required to fill out their health status before arriving in Indonesia,” Head of BBKK Soekarno-Hatta, Naning Nugrahini, said earlier last week.

Naning emphasized that health screening and monitoring will be adjusted dynamically in line with the latest developments, with strict adherence to core health protocols. Airlines are now required to conduct initial health checks at departure points and verify the health status of all passengers.

“In addition, we review travel histories from the past 21 days. Based on this information, we can compile health profiles for each incoming flight and assess potential risks before passengers land in Indonesia,” Naning explained. (Misni Parjiati/Sri Wahyuni)