WHO Confirms Nipah Virus Death in Bangladesh Amid Stepped-Up Asian Airport Screenings
Case follows two Nipah infections in neighboring India as authorities work to contain spread
Authorities in Bangladesh said steps are being taken to contain the virus and that the risk of global spread remains low. However, health officials are on high alert given Nipah's high fatality rate - up to 75% in some outbreaks.
Nipah virus is primarily spread through contact with infected bats or pigs, or by consuming contaminated food products. Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact with an infected person's bodily fluids.
Bangladesh reports Nipah cases almost every year, typically during the winter date palm sap harvesting season, when bats can contaminate the collected sap.
Analysis
Why This Matters
With no vaccine or treatment, Nipah represents one of the pathogens of greatest pandemic concern according to the WHO.
Background
Nipah was first identified in Malaysia in 1999 and has since caused periodic outbreaks across South and Southeast Asia.
Key Perspectives
Public health officials emphasize this appears to be a contained seasonal occurrence. Pandemic preparedness experts note Nipah's pandemic potential warrants continued vigilance.
What to Watch
Whether additional cases emerge, particularly any suggesting human-to-human transmission chains.