GENEVA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has said the risk of the Nipah virus spreading in India or beyond remains low, following two confirmed cases in the country. Officials reported no evidence of significant human-to-human transmission.
According to WHO representatives, none of the more than 190 people who had contact with the two infected individuals have tested positive or developed symptoms. Both patients are hospitalized, with one showing signs of improvement.
Anais Legand, WHO spokesperson, said the agency is waiting for India to release the virus’s full genetic sequence so experts can determine whether any concerning mutations have occurred. She added that, for now, there is “no specific evidence that would make us worry.”
Several nearby countries, including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, have increased airport health screenings in response to the reported cases. WHO officials emphasized, however, that these measures are precautionary, and there is currently no clear evidence of virus spread via travel.
The Nipah virus, typically transmitted from fruit bats or animals such as pigs, can cause fever and brain inflammation. It has a high fatality rate of 40% to 75%, but it does not spread easily between humans. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
Health experts note that while small, localized outbreaks may occur and require vigilance, WHO’s current assessment is that the national, regional, and global risk levels remain low based on available evidence.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
