A woman in Bangladesh has died from Nipah virus after consuming raw date palm sap, the World Health Organisation confirmed. The incident in Rajshahi Division highlights seasonal risks, with no further infections detected among contacts.
The World Health Organisation notified the public on 3 February 2026 of a confirmed Nipah virus case in Bangladesh. This fatal Nipah Virus Bangladesh underscores the ongoing threat in South Asia, where the virus has caused sporadic outbreaks since 2001. With high fatality rates and potential for human-to-human spread, it demands vigilant public health measures across borders, including in neighbouring India and Pakistan.
Details of the Fatal Nipah Case
Health authorities reported the patient, a woman aged between 40 and 50 from Naogaon district in Rajshahi Division, developed symptoms on 21 January 2026. She was admitted to hospital on 28 January 2026, where samples were collected. Laboratory tests, including PCR and ELISA, confirmed Nipah virus on 29 January 2026. The patient died the same day.
The woman had no recent travel history. Investigations revealed she consumed raw date palm sap between 5 January and 20 January 2026. This consumption aligns with known Nipah virus transmission patterns in the region.
Contact tracing identified 35 individuals who interacted with the patient. All tested negative for the virus. No additional cases have emerged as of 7 February 2026.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called Nipah virus a “rare but serious disease.” He stressed enhanced surveillance, testing, and prevention in healthcare settings.
Nipah Virus Symptoms in This Incident
The patient exhibited initial Nipah virus symptoms such as fever and headache. These progressed to hypersalivation, disorientation, and convulsions. Such symptoms reflect the virus’s impact on the central nervous system.
In general, Nipah virus symptoms start with fever, headache, and muscle pain. They can advance to drowsiness, confusion, and coma. Respiratory issues may occur in some cases. Early detection is critical given the 40% to 75% fatality rate.
Health experts note that symptoms appear 4 to 14 days after exposure. In this fatal Nipah case, the timeline matched consumption of contaminated sap.
Nipah Virus Transmission Risks
Nipah virus transmission often involves fruit bats, the natural hosts. In Bangladesh, raw date palm sap contaminated by bat urine or saliva is a primary source. Outbreaks peak from December to April during sap harvesting.
Human-to-human Nipah virus transmission happens through close contact with infected individuals’ bodily fluids. This has occurred in past outbreaks in Bangladesh and India.
No licensed vaccines or treatments exist. Prevention focuses on avoiding raw sap, cooking food thoroughly, and using protective gear in healthcare.
In this Nipah virus Bangladesh case, the link to date palm sap reinforces seasonal warnings. Authorities advise public education on safe practices.
Background on Nipah Virus in Bangladesh
Nipah virus first emerged in Bangladesh in 2001. Since then, the country has recorded about 348 cases, with roughly half linked to date palm sap consumption. Annual outbreaks affect rural areas, straining health systems.
The virus belongs to the Henipavirus genus. It spreads from bats to humans or animals like pigs. In South Asia, Bangladesh and India report most cases. India confirmed two infections in West Bengal in late 2025, prompting regional alerts.
Fatality rates vary by access to care. Bangladesh’s average exceeds 70%. Global cases total over 700, mainly in Southeast Asia.
This recent fatal Nipah case follows patterns seen in prior years. Surveillance by the Directorate General of Health Services has improved detection.
What’s Next for Nipah Virus Bangladesh Response
Authorities plan continued monitoring of contacts until mid-February 2026. Public campaigns will target high-risk districts, urging avoidance of raw sap.
WHO recommends no travel restrictions but advises hygiene for visitors. Research into vaccines continues, with trials in early stages.
South Asian nations may coordinate surveillance, given cross-border bat migration. Bangladesh’s health ministry aims to expand lab capacity.
In conclusion, this Nipah virus Bangladesh incident serves as a reminder of preventive needs amid seasonal threats.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 7th, 2026
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