According to WHO, the woman did not leave the country. However, she consumed raw date palm juice, which is considered one of the main sources of Nipah infection in this region. All 35 people who had contact with her are currently under medical observation, but no new cases of the disease have been recorded.
This situation in Bangladesh coincided with reports of two cases of Nipah virus infection in India. In this regard, several Asian countries are tightening sanitary measures and monitoring at airports.
The Nipah virus is one of the most serious pathogens for which there is no effective vaccine or specific treatment. The mortality rate can reach 75%, and survivors may experience severe neurological complications.
The first cases of the disease were registered in late December 2025 in the Indian state of West Bengal, when two employees of a private clinic fell ill. After that, authorities isolated nearly 200 people who had come into contact with them.
The virus is transmitted from flying foxes, also known as fruit bats, as well as through contact with infected individuals. Infection can occur even through saliva or droplets when coughing.
Unfortunately, there is currently no effective treatment or vaccine. The mortality rate varies from 40% to 75%, depending on the form of the disease and the quality of medical care provided.
The Nipah virus has been identified in India for the seventh time, and in West Bengal for the third time since 2021. WHO also confirms that outbreaks have already been observed in the southern state of Kerala.
New security measures have already been implemented in many countries in the region.
Although the Nipah virus does not pose a global threat, scientists warn of potential new risks.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight two viruses that could cause an outbreak:
- Influenza D virus, which has been identified in animals and farm workers.
- Dog coronavirus HuPn-2018, first discovered in Malaysia in a child with pneumonia, and subsequently in Thailand, Vietnam, Haiti, and the USA.
