Nipah Virus in India, Bangladesh: Experts say Pakistan currently faces no direct threat

KARACHI: Infectious Diseases experts at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) have stated that recent developments related to the Nipah virus (NiV) in Eastern India and Bangladesh do not currently pose a direct threat to Pakistan.

While geographical factors and known transmission patterns keep the risk low, experts noted that the situation presents an important opportunity to reflect on national pandemic preparedness.

Speaking at a media roundtable with journalists, AKUH’s Infectious Diseases specialists shared that since 2025, only 10 cases of the Nipah virus have been reported globally. Of these, just two involved human-to-human transmission, which remains an exceptionally rare occurrence.

“The risk of international spread is considered low,” said Dr Faisal Mahmood, Professor of Infectious Diseases and Associate Chief Medical Officer at AKUH. “While Nipah is a serious infection, it is not an immediate concern for Pakistan at this time. Our healthcare focus remains on addressing pressing domestic challenges, including the current rise in measles cases.”

Experts explained that the primary mode of Nipah virus transmission is zoonotic, occurring through direct contact with infected bats or the consumption of food contaminated by them, such as raw tree sap or fruit. They clarified that the virus is not transmitted through casual exposure to bats, such as bats flying nearby.

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“Geographically, the recent cases are concentrated in West Bengal and Kerala in India, as well as in Bangladesh,” said Dr Nosheen Nasir, Section Head of Infectious Diseases at AKUH.

“Importantly, no cases have been reported from western regions of India that border Pakistan. However, because early symptoms such as fever and headache can resemble influenza and may progress to severe brain inflammation, continued clinical vigilance is essential.”

The panel acknowledged the government’s proactive screening of travellers at international entry points as a positive step in safeguarding public health. Drawing on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic nearly six years ago, AKUH experts emphasised that strong health resilience is built through early preparedness, effective coordination, and sustained community awareness, rather than reactive containment alone.

By prioritising healthcare readiness today, Pakistan can strengthen its capacity to respond to future public health emergencies, ensuring the safety and confidence of its population.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026