Dhaka: The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday confirmed the death of a woman due to Nipah virus infection in Bangladesh, raising fresh concerns over the re-emergence of the deadly zoonotic disease. The incident occurred in late January in northern Bangladesh.
According to WHO, the woman, aged between 40 and 50 years, developed initial symptoms such as fever and headache on January 21. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, with severe symptoms including excessive salivation, mental confusion, and seizures. She died about a week after the onset of symptoms. Laboratory tests conducted a day after her death confirmed Nipah virus infection.
Source of Infection
Health authorities found that the woman had no recent travel history. However, investigations revealed that she had consumed raw date palm sap. Experts note that Nipah virus is commonly transmitted to humans through fruits or liquids contaminated by fruit bats, the natural carriers of the virus.
Preventive Measures and Current Situation
Contact Tracing:
All 35 people who came into close contact with the patient were identified and placed under medical surveillance. Thankfully, all of them tested negative for the virus.
Regional Impact:
Following reports of Nipah cases in Bangladesh and two recent cases in India’s West Bengal, several Asian countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan, have stepped up thermal screening at airports.
WHO Assessment:
The WHO stated that the current risk of international spread remains low. As a result, no travel or trade restrictions have been recommended at this stage.
Nipah virus is a highly fatal disease, with a mortality rate that can reach up to 75 percent. It primarily spreads through food contaminated by infected bats and does not transmit easily between humans. Currently, there is no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available.
Bangladesh reported four confirmed Nipah cases in 2025, all of which resulted in deaths. Health authorities have once again urged people to avoid consuming fallen fruits and to drink date palm sap only after proper boiling to reduce the risk of infection.
