Bangladesh Reports First Nipah Virus Death, WHO Says
A woman has succumbed to the deadly Nipah virus in northern Bangladesh in early January, according to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO). The 40-50 year-old resident developed flu-like symptoms, including high fever and headache, followed by more severe symptoms such as excessive drooling, disorientation, and convulsions. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly before passing away.
It is believed that the woman consumed raw date palm sap, which has been identified as a potential source of infection for Nipah virus. There was no travel history reported by the victim, but her case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with consuming contaminated foods or products.
The WHO has taken steps to monitor individuals who came into contact with the patient and tested negative for the virus. To date, no further cases have been detected, suggesting that the outbreak may be contained.
Nipah is an infectious disease primarily spread through fruit contaminated by infected bats. While it can prove fatal in up to 75% of cases, the virus does not easily transmit between people. The WHO has acknowledged this and has ruled out any travel or trade restrictions based on current data.
Following reports of Nipah virus cases in India, several countries have implemented temperature screenings at airports, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan. Bangladesh's experience underscores the need for vigilance in addressing emerging health threats.
Despite ongoing efforts to combat the virus, there is currently no licensed medicine or vaccine available for Nipah infection. The WHO has called on continued monitoring of the situation and reported that four laboratory-confirmed fatal cases were reported in Bangladesh in 2025, highlighting the ongoing risk associated with this disease.
A woman has succumbed to the deadly Nipah virus in northern Bangladesh in early January, according to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO). The 40-50 year-old resident developed flu-like symptoms, including high fever and headache, followed by more severe symptoms such as excessive drooling, disorientation, and convulsions. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly before passing away.
It is believed that the woman consumed raw date palm sap, which has been identified as a potential source of infection for Nipah virus. There was no travel history reported by the victim, but her case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with consuming contaminated foods or products.
The WHO has taken steps to monitor individuals who came into contact with the patient and tested negative for the virus. To date, no further cases have been detected, suggesting that the outbreak may be contained.
Nipah is an infectious disease primarily spread through fruit contaminated by infected bats. While it can prove fatal in up to 75% of cases, the virus does not easily transmit between people. The WHO has acknowledged this and has ruled out any travel or trade restrictions based on current data.
Following reports of Nipah virus cases in India, several countries have implemented temperature screenings at airports, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan. Bangladesh's experience underscores the need for vigilance in addressing emerging health threats.
Despite ongoing efforts to combat the virus, there is currently no licensed medicine or vaccine available for Nipah infection. The WHO has called on continued monitoring of the situation and reported that four laboratory-confirmed fatal cases were reported in Bangladesh in 2025, highlighting the ongoing risk associated with this disease.