Sri Lanka, Jan. 29 -- The general public has been advised not to panic regarding the Nipah virus outbreak currently spreading in India.

Deputy Health Minister Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni emphasized that Sri Lanka faces no immediate threat.

He noted that Sri Lanka's health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and that all necessary testing kits are available in the country should suspicious cases arise.

The Nipah virus, which can be transmitted from animals such as bats and swine, has been reported in several Asian countries, prompting heightened airport screening in Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. The virus has a fatality rate ranging from 40% to 75%.

Although person-to-person transmission is possible, it is extreme...