Nipah virus spreads to 35 districts, hospitals put on high alert

Nipah virus infections have spread across the country, with cases now detected in 35 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts, health authorities said.

The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) reported that four people died from confirmed Nipah virus infections last year (2025), with the most recent death occurring at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital while the patient was undergoing treatment.

Hospitals across the country directed to remain on high alert after the developoment.

The information was shared at a stakeholder meeting titled “Spread and Risk of Nipah Virus” held at the IEDCR auditorium on Wednesday (January 7).

The meeting was chaired by IEDCR Director Tahmina Shirin.

IEDCR Scientific Officer Sharmin Sultana said, Nipah virus outbreaks occur almost every winter in Bangladesh and the virus is highly fatal, with a mortality rate of around 72 percent among infected patients. She noted that the primary mode of transmission is the consumption of raw date palm sap, while about 28 percent of cases result from human-to-human transmission. She added that there is currently no effective treatment or vaccine against the virus, making prevention critical.

Dr Syed Moinuddin Sattar, associate scientist at the Infectious Diseases Division of icddr,b and coordinator of the Nipah virus surveillance programme, said, infections have been identified in 35 districts, with Faridpur, Rajbari, Naogaon and Lalmonirhat reporting comparatively higher infection and death rates.

"Surveillance has been intensified in high-risk areas and hospitals have been instructed to remain prepared," he added.

Speakers at the meeting stressed the need to strengthen public awareness to prevent the spread of Nipah virus, highlighting the crucial role of the media in discouraging the consumption of raw date palm sap and promoting basic hygiene practices.

Director General of the Health Education Directorate Nazmul Hossain and other relevant officials atteded the event.

Preventive measures against Nipah virus include: Avoiding consumption of raw date palm sap, avoiding partially eaten or bat-bitten fruits, washing fruits thoroughly with clean water before eating, seeking immediate medical care at a government hospital if symptoms appear, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with infected individuals.