New Delhi, February 7: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the death of a woman from the Nipah virus in Bangladesh. Following this incident, airport screenings have been intensified across Asia. Just two weeks prior, two similar cases were reported in India, both involving healthcare workers from the 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.
On Friday, the WHO reported that the patient, aged between 40 and 50, exhibited symptoms of the Nipah virus on January 21. These symptoms included fever, headache, excessive salivation, confusion, and seizures.
A week later, she passed away, and the following day, tests confirmed the presence of the virus. Although the woman had no travel history, investigations revealed that she had consumed raw date palm sap.
The WHO stated that all 35 individuals who had contact with the patient are being monitored, and their virus tests have returned negative. So far, no additional cases have been reported.
The Nipah virus spreads through contaminated materials, such as fruits, from infected bats. It can be fatal in 75% of cases, but it does not spread easily between people.
After the cases were reported in India, countries including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia implemented airport screenings.
The WHO indicated on Friday that the risk of international spread of the disease is considered low and does not recommend any travel or trade restrictions based on current information. In 2025, four confirmed fatal cases were reported in Bangladesh.
Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for this infection. According to the WHO, regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding contact with flying fox bats or sick pigs, steering clear of areas inhabited by bats, and refraining from touching or consuming fruits or materials contaminated by bats can help prevent this infection.