KARACHI: Infectious disease experts at Aga Khan University Hospital have stated that recent reports of Nipah virus (NiV) cases in parts of India and Bangladesh do not currently pose a direct threat to Pakistan, while emphasising the need for continued clinical vigilance and long-term pandemic preparedness.
Speaking at a media roundtable with journalists, AKUH specialists noted that since 2025 only ten cases of Nipah virus have been reported globally, with just two involving 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. He added that while Nipah virus is a serious infection, it does not present an immediate concern for Pakistan at this time, and healthcare priorities remain focused on pressing domestic challenges, including the current rise in measles cases.
Experts explained that Nipah virus is primarily transmitted through zoonotic exposure, including direct contact with infected bats or consumption of food contaminated by them, such as raw tree sap or partially eaten fruit. They clarified that casual exposure, such as bats flying nearby, does not result in transmission.
“Geographically, 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. She pointed out that no cases have been reported from western regions of India bordering Pakistan, but cautioned that early symptoms such as fever and headache may resemble influenza and can progress to severe brain inflammation, making early recognition critical.
The experts acknowledged government-led screening of travellers at international entry points as a positive preventive measure and stressed that lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the importance of early preparedness, coordinated health systems, and sustained public awareness rather than reactive containment alone.
They concluded that strengthening healthcare readiness and surveillance mechanisms will enhance Pakistan’s capacity to respond effectively to future public health threats, ensuring greater public safety and confidence.
