Nipah Virus Fatality in Bangladesh Confirmed by World Health Organisation
The World Health Organisation has confirmed that a woman in Bangladesh died on Friday after contracting the deadly Nipah virus in January. This case emerges following an outbreak of Nipah virus infections identified in neighbouring India, which has already implemented Covid-era border controls to contain the spread.
Details of the Fatal Infection
The patient, aged between 40 and 50 and located in northern Bangladesh, initially developed a fever and neurological symptoms consistent with Nipah virus infection on 21 January. These symptoms included severe headache, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, and persistent vomiting. Her condition rapidly deteriorated as she began exhibiting signs of confusion, hypersalivation, and convulsions—a medical state characterized by rapid muscle contraction and relaxation leading to uncontrolled body shaking.
On 27 January, she lost consciousness and was urgently admitted to hospital, where she tragically passed away the following day. Surveillance teams collected throat swabs and blood samples, which laboratory analysis confirmed as positive for Nipah virus infection.
Transmission and Risk Factors
While the woman had no recent travel history, health officials reported she had repeatedly consumed raw date palm sap in the weeks preceding her death. Most Nipah virus infections result from consuming fruits contaminated with the faeces or saliva of infected fruit bats, which serve as natural carriers of the pathogen.
The virus represents a rare but exceptionally serious infectious disease, with UK health authorities estimating it could kill between 40 and 75 percent of infected individuals. Survivors often face lasting neurological complications, including persistent seizures and significant personality changes. In rare instances, the virus can remain dormant and reactivate months or even years after the initial infection.
Regional Outbreak Context and Response
This Bangladesh case follows two confirmed Nipah virus infections in India's West Bengal State, sparking renewed pandemic concerns across the region. The WHO has confirmed that all 35 individuals who had contact with the Bangladeshi patient are being closely monitored and have tested negative for the virus to date, with no additional cases detected.
In response to the outbreak, several Asian nations including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Pakistan have implemented temperature screenings at airports. This marks the first Nipah virus case reported outside India during this current outbreak period, heightening international vigilance.
Historical Patterns and Ongoing Surveillance
Since 2001, Bangladesh has reported more than 340 Nipah virus cases, with approximately half occurring among individuals with a history of consuming raw palm sap. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus stated last week that authorities have significantly increased disease surveillance and testing capabilities while implementing comprehensive prevention and control measures in healthcare settings.
Public health officials continue to closely monitor the situation, particularly as there remains no vaccine or specific treatment for Nipah virus infection. The UK Health Security Agency has issued updated guidance noting that while the risk to most people remains very low, understanding the virus is crucial for those planning travel to affected regions.
Health authorities maintain that the outbreak remains largely under control, but the high fatality rate and potential for neurological sequelae underscore the importance of continued vigilance and preventive measures across affected regions.
