Focus on the Nipah Virus Infection in Bangladesh: Professional Views from a WHO SEARO Webinar

Bangladesh has become part of a renewed regional conversation on the Nipah virus infection, following recent cases reported nearby and heightened focus from international public health experts. The World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) recently hosted a webinar titled “Nipah Virus Infection in Focus”, bringing together specialists to discuss the virus, its risks, and strategies for prevention and response.

The webinar, held on 4 February 2026, was organised by the WHO SEARO Community of Practice on Public Health Intelligence in collaboration with the WHO Health Emergencies Programme. It drew attention amid emerging Nipah cases in the region, particularly in neighbouring West Bengal, India, where two confirmed cases were reported to WHO on 26 January 2026.

Experts Shared Regional Epidemiology and Public Health Insights

The session was opened by senior WHO officials Dr Masaya Kato and Dr Pushpa Ranjan Wijesinghe, who underscored the importance of continuous learning and collaboration on epidemic intelligence throughout the South-East Asia Region.

Specialists from India — a frequent reporting country for Nipah virus events — provided a comprehensive overview of the recent epidemiological situation and national response efforts. Dr Dipankar Maji detailed how health authorities detected and responded to the confirmed infections among healthcare workers, including case monitoring and public health actions. Meanwhile, Dr Yogiraj Ray described the clinical progression of infected patients, including key symptoms, laboratory findings, and treatment approaches used in clinical settings.

This expert exchange offered essential insights into how Nipah virus cases are being identified and managed in practice, and highlighted the challenges health systems face in both surveillance and clinical care.

Why Nipah Virus Remains a Regional Concern

The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen — meaning it can spread from animals to humans — first identified in Malaysia in the late 1990s and later causing outbreaks in Bangladesh and India. The virus is primarily hosted by fruit bats and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated food. Human-to-human transmission is documented and has occurred in hospital settings, increasing the importance of infection control.

One of the most concerning features of the Nipah virus is its high case fatality rate, which has historically ranged between 40 % and 75 % in affected populations. Currently, there is no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available, making prevention and rapid public health response vital.

Public Health Preparedness and Collaboration

The WHO SEARO webinar also highlighted broader regional strategies, including the South-East Asia Regional Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Nipah Virus Infection (2023–2030), which emphasises a One Health approach. This strategy aims to improve surveillance, early detection, clinical management, laboratory capacity, and public awareness across Member States. The One Health concept acknowledges the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in managing diseases like Nipah.

Dissemination of technical guidance, laboratory manuals, and readiness frameworks continues to support countries in detecting cases early and responding effectively to outbreaks.

Looking Ahead

As Bangladesh and its neighbours navigate sporadic Nipah cases, expert discussions like the WHO SEARO webinar play a crucial role in strengthening regional health security. By enhancing knowledge, sharing experiences, and coordinating efforts across borders, public health leaders aim to reduce the impact of this deadly virus — while building preparedness for future emerging infections.