Nipah Virus Alert; Watch out for THESE Warning Signs amid recent outbreak

2026-01-28 - 14:31

LAHORE – Pakistan is facing a new nightmare as health authorities are on high alert as Nipah virus cases emerge in West Bengal, India, with a mortality rate of 30–40%. Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar warned that the situation “could be extremely serious,” as reports indicate the virus is spreading rapidly. Countries across the region have already tightened airport screenings to prevent its spread. Experts caution that while Nipah virus is less contagious than COVID-19, it is far deadlier. COVID-19 claims 1–2% of infections, but Nipah kills nearly one in three—or more. Thailand has launched strict passenger checks at airports receiving flights from West Bengal, and Nepal is closely monitoring arrivals at Kathmandu airport and border crossings with India. Since December, two confirmed cases have appeared among healthcare workers in West Bengal. Indian authorities traced 196 people who came into contact with the patients, all testing negative so far. Symptoms of Nipah Virus Nipah virus spreads from animals to humans and has no approved vaccine or treatment, making it silent but lethal threat. World Health Organization (WHO) warns that it causes severe illness in both humans and animals. First identified in Malaysia in late 1990s among pigs, Nipah virus is named after the village where it was discovered. Its long incubation period, up to 45 days. means infected individuals may unknowingly spread the virus before showing any symptoms. Severe breathing difficulties Persistent cough and sore throat Body aches and extreme fatigue Brain inflammation (encephalitis) The virus directly attacks the brain, often leaving survivors with severe neurological damage. If we look back, the first Nipah outbreak was reported in Malaysia (1998) that killed over 100 people and led to the culling of 1 million pigs, causing enormous economic losses. Since 2001, Bangladesh reported over 100 deaths from the virus. India has faced multiple outbreaks in West Bengal (2001, 2007) and Kerala (2018, 2023). Kerala’s 2018 outbreak was particularly devastating: 19 confirmed cases, 17 deaths. Punjab Health Dept issues alert for possible spread of Nipah virus