COLOMBO, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka has stepped up monitoring measures following reports of a Nipah virus cluster in India's eastern state of West Bengal, as health authorities across parts of Asia heighten vigilance over the emerging situation, the Daily Mirror reported.

Health officials said Sri Lanka is tracking developments at the regional level and remains in contact with international health monitoring systems. While no cases have been reported locally, authorities have indicated that preparedness measures are in place should the situation evolve.

The alert follows confirmation by Indian authorities of at least five Nipah virus infections in West Bengal, including cases among healthcare workers. The development has prompted several countries in the region to strengthen preventive measures, particularly at international airports.

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease transmitted between animals and humans and, in some instances, through human-to-human contact. It is classified as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization due to its epidemic potential and the severity of illness it can cause. Past outbreaks of the Nipah virus have been associated with high fatality rates, ranging from 40 percent to 75 percent. ■