Nipah Virus Risk Declared Low Globally by OMS
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the global risk of the Nipah virus (NiV) as low following a recent outbreak in West Bengal, India.
- As of January 26, 2024, the WHO reported two confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection in West Bengal, with both cases resulting in fatalities.
- The WHO stated that the outbreak is limited too a specific geographic area and that there is no evidence of widespread community transmission.
WHO Assesses Nipah Virus Risk as Low Following Outbreak in West Bengal, India
The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the global risk of the Nipah virus (NiV) as low following a recent outbreak in West Bengal, India. This marks the third reported NiV infection outbreak in the region, following previous incidents in Siliguri in 2001 and nadia in 2007.
As of January 26, 2024, the WHO reported two confirmed cases of Nipah virus infection in West Bengal, with both cases resulting in fatalities. The cases originated in the Birbhum district.
The WHO stated that the outbreak is limited too a specific geographic area and that there is no evidence of widespread community transmission. Close contacts of the confirmed cases are being monitored.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, meaning it transmits from animals to humans. fruit bats are the natural reservoir for the virus. Human infections can occur through consumption of contaminated food, or direct contact with infected animals or people.
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection include:
- fever
- Headache
- Respiratory problems
- Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
There is currently no vaccine available for Nipah virus.Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as managing fever and respiratory symptoms.
The WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and provide support to the Indian government in its response efforts. Further updates will be provided as more data becomes available.
for more information, please visit the WHO’s Nipah Virus fact sheet.