The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that a woman in northern Bangladesh died in January after contracting the Nipah Virus. She was between 40 and 50 years old and developed symptoms on January 21, including fever, headache, hypersalivation, disorientation, and convulsions. She passed away a week later, and the infection was confirmed the following day.
Authorities said the woman had no recent travel history but had consumed raw date palm sap, a known source of Nipah Virus infection. All 35 people who came into contact with her are being monitored. So far, none have tested positive, and no additional cases have been reported.
Bangladesh regularly reports Nipah Virus cases, usually linked to fruit or other products contaminated by bats. The virus can be fatal in up to 75 percent of cases but does not easily spread from person to person.
The recent case in Bangladesh comes after two cases were reported in neighboring India, prompting enhanced airport screenings across several Asian countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan. These measures include temperature checks for travelers arriving from affected areas.
WHO officials emphasized that the current risk of international spread is low. They do not recommend any travel or trade restrictions at this time. Public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
In 2025, Bangladesh reported four laboratory-confirmed deaths from Nipah Virus. There are currently no vaccines or specific treatments available for the infection, making prevention through hygiene and safe food practices essential.
Experts advise avoiding consumption of raw date palm sap or unwashed fruits in areas where the virus is known to circulate. Health authorities continue public awareness campaigns to reduce the risk of transmission during outbreaks.
In other news read more about: India Confirms Two Nipah Virus Cases as Thailand, Malaysia Increase Screening
The WHO continues to work with local authorities to track any potential cases and provide guidance on containment and safety measures, ensuring that both residents and travelers remain informed about the risks associated with Nipah Virus.
