Health alarms are sounding across South Asia following the World Health Organization’s confirmation of a Nipah virus fatality in Bangladesh. The victim, aged between 40 and 50, first showed signs on January 21—fever and headaches giving way to severe symptoms like profuse drooling, disorientation, and convulsions. Her death came after seven days, verified by tests the next day.
No international travel preceded her illness, but raw date palm juice consumption was pinpointed as the likely source, contaminated by infected bats. Thirty-five contacts remain under strict surveillance, with clean tests and no further infections detected.
Echoing this, India reported two Nipah cases in West Bengal’s 24 Parganas just two weeks prior—both among healthcare staff. Airports from India to Southeast Asia swiftly heightened screenings in response.
Deadly in three-quarters of cases, Nipah lurks in bat-droppings-tainted foods and doesn’t easily jump between people. WHO deems international spread unlikely, rejecting bans on movement or commerce for now.
Bangladesh’s 2025 toll stands at four confirmed deaths. Lacking cures or shots, defense relies on hygiene: wash hands often, shun bat zones and tainted produce, and dodge contact with flying foxes or ill swine.
Regional authorities are on high alert, emphasizing early detection and public education to contain this seasonal menace.