First Nipa Virus Death Reported in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has recorded its first confirmed death from the Nipa virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed. While the international risk of the virus spreading remains limited, national health authorities have already heightened surveillance and precautionary measures.

According to WHO, the patient was a woman aged between 40 and 50 from Naogaon district in the Rajshahi division. She was admitted to hospital in January 2026 and shortly thereafter began exhibiting neurological symptoms. Laboratory tests conducted on 22 January 2026 confirmed Nipa virus infection.

The WHO further reported that the Bangladesh government’s International Health Regulations National Focal Point (IHR NFP) officially notified the organisation of the case on 3 February 2026. The patient had no recent history of international travel, but she had consumed raw date palm sap—a known source of Nipa virus infection.

Following diagnosis, health authorities conducted testing on 35 individuals who had close contact with the patient. None of these contacts tested positive for the virus, although all were advised to remain vigilant and strictly follow preventive measures.

The outbreak in Bangladesh has drawn additional attention due to recent Nipa virus incidents in neighbouring West Bengal, India. Despite the seriousness of the virus, WHO has stated that no travel or trade restrictions are currently recommended, citing a low risk of wider transmission.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, described the Nipa virus as a “rare but severe disease,” emphasising the importance of heightened awareness, early testing, and public education. WHO’s latest assessment suggests that national, regional, and global public health risks remain low.

Bangladesh’s government and health authorities are intensifying nationwide preparedness. Key preventive measures include public awareness campaigns, strict adherence to hygiene protocols, and avoiding high-risk behaviours such as consuming unprocessed date palm sap. Rapid reporting of symptoms is also critical to preventing further transmission.

The following table summarises key information about the patient and the response:

Authorities continue to prioritise public health management, awareness campaigns, personal hygiene, and immediate reporting of symptoms to prevent new infections. The incident underscores the ongoing need for vigilance against emerging infectious diseases.