WHO reported Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in Bangladesh; usually cases were reported between April-Dec, during the seasons for the consumption of date palm sap. However, since February 2024, two laboratory confirmed cases of Nipah have been reported
NiV is a bat-borne zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through infected animals from bodily fluids or oral-fecal route. Incubation period of the virus is between 4-14 days. There is no current antiviral for NiV
The first patient was a 38 year-old male from Manikganj district, Dhaka division. He was reported to have consumed raw date sap on December 31st and developed a fever followed by restlessness on Jan 11th. After admitting to intensive care, he was intubated after rapid deterioration of symptoms and passed away on the 28th.
The second patient was a 3 year-old female who passed away from a two day fever of NiV and was tested positive on the second day.
The WHO and Bangladesh government are working to implement health education activities through electronic routes and print, such as posters and leaflets. WHO is also working to strengthen communication and surveillance in high risk districts to diagnose and triage patients.
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