Heightened global concerns over a recent outbreak of Nipah virus in India have prompted preventative measures at international travel hubs across Southeast Asia. In Manado, Indonesia, Sam Ratulangi International Airport began implementing thermal screening of incoming passengers on Wednesday, February 4th, as a proactive step to safeguard North Sulawesi province [[1]]. The move, coordinated with the Class I Manado Health Quarantine Office, reflects increased vigilance regarding the potentially severe respiratory illness and encephalitis caused by the virus.
Manado Airport Implements Thermal Scanners to Monitor for Nipah Virus
Thursday, February 5, 2026 05:15 WIB
Manado (ANTARA) – Sam Ratulangi International Airport (Samrat) in Manado, Indonesia, has installed thermal scanners to proactively screen incoming passengers for the Nipah virus, safeguarding the province of North Sulawesi from potential outbreaks. The move reflects growing global concern over the virus, which can cause severe respiratory illness and encephalitis.
“We have placed thermal scanners in the international arrival terminal area,” said Radityo Ari Purwoko, General Manager of Sam Ratulangi Airport, on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
The scanners function by monitoring passengers’ body temperatures in real-time as they enter the terminal building, allowing for quick identification of individuals exhibiting elevated temperatures.
According to Purwoko, the implementation of thermal scanning will help airport personnel quickly identify passengers who may be experiencing symptoms and require further evaluation.
Ensuring the safety of international passengers arriving in Manado is the primary focus of the airport’s preventative measures, Purwoko stated.
He emphasized that the airport is responding swiftly to the emerging global health threat.
Collaboration with the Class I Manado Health Quarantine Office has been ongoing and intensive, facilitating a coordinated response.
In addition to temperature screening, the airport has also prepared adequate medical facilities to address potential cases.
Passengers identified with suspicious symptoms will be immediately directed to a designated isolation area. Ambulances are on standby for referral to hospitals, and masks are available for passengers.
As of February 4, 2026, Purwoko confirmed that no cases or indications of the virus have been reported within Indonesia.
Although there are currently no direct flights from India – where a recent outbreak of Nipah virus has been reported – to Manado, airport officials determined that preventative measures were necessary.
The airport’s preventative efforts align with Circular Letter Number HK.02.02/C/445/2026 issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Health, which calls for strengthening health quarantine technical implementation units at all entry points to the country.
In line with the direction of Deputy Minister of Health Benjamin Paulus Octavianus, Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado is committed to maintaining health security standards to protect the citizens of North Sulawesi.
Pewarta : Nancy Tigauw
Editor:
Hence Paat
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